Raiders Land Top Free Agent Center in Blockbuster Deal

Baltimore's Tyler Linderbaum signs 3-year, $81 million contract to anchor Las Vegas offensive line

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Las Vegas Raiders have made a major splash in free agency, signing former Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum to a 3-year, $81 million contract. Linderbaum, a 3-time Pro Bowler, is considered one of the top interior offensive linemen in the NFL and will provide a major boost to the Raiders' offensive line as they look to build around top draft pick quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Why it matters

The Raiders have struggled with their offensive line in recent seasons, and landing a premier talent like Linderbaum is a significant move to improve that unit and provide better protection and run-blocking for their young franchise quarterback. Linderbaum's arrival also has implications for the rest of the Raiders' offensive personnel, potentially opening up more opportunities for running back Ashton Jeanty and wide receivers like Jalen Nailor.

The details

Linderbaum, 26, was one of the most sought-after free agents on the market this offseason. The Raiders beat out several other teams to land the former Ravens center on a 3-year deal worth $81 million, with $60 million guaranteed. Linderbaum is now the highest-paid interior offensive lineman in the NFL. The Raiders are hoping his arrival will solidify the middle of their offensive line and provide a strong foundation for their offense moving forward.

  • The Raiders agreed to terms with Linderbaum on Monday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Tyler Linderbaum

A 26-year-old center who spent the first 4 seasons of his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens, making the Pro Bowl 3 times.

Fernando Mendoza

The expected #1 overall pick by the Raiders in the 2026 NFL Draft, a quarterback from Indiana University.

Ashton Jeanty

The Raiders' starting running back, who is expected to benefit from the improved offensive line play with Linderbaum's arrival.

Jalen Nailor

A wide receiver the Raiders signed in free agency, who they hope can emerge as a top receiving threat for Mendoza.

John Spytek

The Raiders' general manager, who was praised for landing Linderbaum as the team's top free agent target.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Linderbaum is a stud. Centers like that change the whole line. Raiders just got better up front.”

— Richie Incognito, Former Raiders Offensive Lineman (X)

What’s next

The Raiders still have several other needs to address in free agency and the draft, including finding a true #1 wide receiver to pair with Mendoza. But landing Linderbaum was a major first step in upgrading their offensive line and setting up their young quarterback for success.

The takeaway

The Raiders made a bold move to land one of the top free agents on the market, showing their commitment to building a strong offensive foundation around their future franchise quarterback. Linderbaum's arrival is a significant upgrade that should pay dividends for the Raiders' offense in the years to come.