Ravens Seek Center Replacement in Latest Mock Draft

Baltimore must fill void left by Tyler Linderbaum's departure to the Raiders

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:19pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented motion of an offensive lineman, with sharp planes of purple and black representing the Baltimore Ravens' uniform colors.An artistic interpretation of the Ravens' search for a new offensive line anchor to replace the departed Tyler Linderbaum.Las Vegas Today

With the loss of three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency, the Baltimore Ravens have a major hole to fill on their offensive line. In the latest NFL mock draft, analyst Gennaro Filice has the Ravens selecting Utah right tackle Spencer Fano, who could potentially convert to center due to his athleticism and run-blocking ability.

Why it matters

For the Ravens to succeed in the 2026 season under new head coach Jesse Minter, they will need to solidify their offensive line to protect star quarterback Lamar Jackson. Losing a talent like Linderbaum is a significant blow, and the team must find a suitable replacement, whether through the draft, a trade, or free agency.

The details

Filice believes the Ravens could convert the 6'5", 315-pound Fano to center, despite concerns about his shorter 33-inch arm length for a tackle. Fano's athleticism and run-blocking prowess make him an intriguing option to potentially fill the void left by Linderbaum's departure.

  • Tyler Linderbaum signed with the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency this offseason.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in the coming months.

The players

Tyler Linderbaum

A three-time Pro Bowl center who previously played for the Baltimore Ravens before signing with the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency.

Spencer Fano

A right tackle prospect from the University of Utah who could potentially convert to center in the NFL due to his athleticism and run-blocking ability.

Lamar Jackson

The star quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens who will need a strong offensive line to protect him and allow him to perform at his best.

Jesse Minter

The new head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, who will be looking to lead the team to a Super Bowl in the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“In the wake of Tyler Linderbaum's bank-breaking departure from Baltimore in free agency, the Ravens have a gaping hole at center. So, naturally, I'm giving them Utah's right tackle. Wait, what? That's right: Fano's sub-33-inch arm length induces concerns about his NFL viability as a bookend blocker, but his hyper athleticism and people-moving ability in the run game raise the possibility of a conversion to the interior.”

— Gennaro Filice, NFL.com Analyst

What’s next

The Ravens will continue to evaluate options to replace Tyler Linderbaum, whether through the draft, free agency, or a trade. Their decision will be crucial in determining the success of their 2026 season under new head coach Jesse Minter.

The takeaway

The loss of a three-time Pro Bowl center like Tyler Linderbaum is a significant blow to the Ravens' offensive line, and the team must find a suitable replacement to protect star quarterback Lamar Jackson and ensure the team's success in the 2026 season.