Ravens GM: 'We have some work to do' on Tyler Linderbaum's contract

Baltimore must negotiate a new deal to keep the center from hitting free agency.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 4:07pm

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Baltimore Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta acknowledged the team has work to do to re-sign center Tyler Linderbaum, who is set to become a free agent this offseason. Linderbaum, a 2022 first-round draft pick, has emerged as a standout player for the Ravens, but his high price tag could price him out of Baltimore if a new contract can't be reached.

Why it matters

Linderbaum is a key part of the Ravens' offensive line and losing him in free agency would be a significant blow. The team must balance Linderbaum's market value with their salary cap constraints, making contract negotiations critical to keeping the young center in Baltimore.

The details

The Ravens did not pick up Linderbaum's fifth-year option, which would have guaranteed him $23.4 million in 2026. The franchise tag for an offensive lineman would also be even more expensive, so the Ravens must work out a new long-term deal to keep Linderbaum from testing the open market. Chiefs center Creed Humphrey currently has the highest average annual salary at the position at $18 million, and Linderbaum will likely seek to top that figure.

  • Linderbaum's fifth-year option was not picked up by the Ravens.
  • The 2023 NFL free agency period begins in March.

The players

Tyler Linderbaum

A 2022 first-round draft pick by the Baltimore Ravens, Linderbaum has emerged as a standout center for the team.

Eric DeCosta

The general manager of the Baltimore Ravens, who acknowledged the team has work to do to re-sign Linderbaum.

Creed Humphrey

The Kansas City Chiefs' center, who currently has the highest average annual salary at the position at $18 million.

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What they’re saying

“We've got some work to do on Tyler Linderbaum's contract. He's a free agent. We strongly hope to have him back. He's a great player for us and a great leader.”

— Eric DeCosta, General Manager, Baltimore Ravens

What’s next

The Ravens must negotiate a new contract with Linderbaum before the start of free agency in March to keep him from hitting the open market.

The takeaway

Retaining Tyler Linderbaum is a top priority for the Ravens this offseason, but the team faces a challenge in signing the young center to a new deal that fits within their salary cap constraints. Linderbaum's market value could price him out of Baltimore if the two sides can't reach an agreement.