Ravens 3x Pro Bowl Center Faces 'Medical Concerns': Report

Baltimore may look to replace Tyler Linderbaum with a cheaper alternative in free agency.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Baltimore Ravens are facing a difficult decision regarding their starting center Tyler Linderbaum, a three-time Pro Bowler. According to reports, there are concerns about Linderbaum's medical history and his size, which could make it challenging for the team to agree to a contract extension with the 2022 first-round pick. The Ravens are reportedly showing interest in center Connor McGovern of the Buffalo Bills as a potential replacement, as he would be a more affordable option compared to Linderbaum.

Why it matters

The Ravens' offensive line has been a key strength of the team in recent years, and losing a talented center like Linderbaum could be a significant blow. However, the team's salary cap situation and concerns about Linderbaum's long-term health may force them to explore other options at the position.

The details

The Ravens' offensive coordinator Declan Doyle joined the team from the Chicago Bears, where he worked with center Drew Dalman. Now, the Ravens are facing questions at the center position, with Linderbaum's contract extension negotiations stalling due to cap space issues and concerns about his medical history and size. The team is reportedly interested in signing Connor McGovern, a 2019 third-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys who has been with the Buffalo Bills since 2023 and made the Pro Bowl in 2024.

  • Linderbaum was a 2022 first-round pick by the Ravens.
  • McGovern signed a 3-year, $22.35 million deal with the Bills in 2023.

The players

Tyler Linderbaum

A three-time Pro Bowl center for the Baltimore Ravens who was a 2022 first-round draft pick.

Declan Doyle

The new offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, who previously held the same position with the Chicago Bears.

Connor McGovern

A center who was a 2019 third-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys and has been with the Buffalo Bills since 2023, making the Pro Bowl in 2024.

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What they’re saying

“Baltimore has been reticent to spend top dollar on a center for decades, and league sources indicated there have been some underlying medical concerns with Linderbaum, who has been a Pro Bowl player for them but is also undersized.”

— Jason La Canfora, Sportswriter (SportsBoom)

What’s next

The Ravens will need to decide whether to re-sign Linderbaum or pursue a cheaper alternative like McGovern in free agency.

The takeaway

The Ravens' decision on their starting center will have significant implications for their offensive line and overall team performance. The team's salary cap constraints and concerns about Linderbaum's long-term health may force them to explore more affordable options, even if it means parting ways with a talented player.