Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum has been a dominant force in the NFL, earning Pro Bowl honors in two of his first three years and starting 49 games. However, general manager Eric DeCosta has declined to exercise Linderbaum’s fifth-year option, worth $18.6 million in 2026. This move may seem puzzling, but it makes sense given the Ravens’ financial situation.
Linderbaum would have been entitled to a salary equal to the franchise tag tender at his position, which could have made him one of the highest-paid centers in the league. However, exercising his option would have ceded important leverage in contract negotiations, leaving the team with limited flexibility to sign other players.
The Ravens can now work on an extension that’s cheaper in 2026 and more in line with the market for top-tier centers. If necessary, they could designate Linderbaum with the franchise tag as a last resort or use the transition tag, worth $25 million, to match any offer sheet he signs with another team.
Linderbaum is expected to remain a Baltimore Raven long-term, but this decision shows that the front office is prioritizing salary cap space. With the NFL draft over, DeCosta will focus on retaining other key players, including quarterback Lamar Jackson. However, big-money deals require patience, and DeCosta has already demonstrated his commitment to signing good young players.
In a statement, DeCosta said he hopes to retain both Linderbaum and All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton, but exercising his option for Hamilton was a priority due to the team’s financial constraints.
Source: https://www.thebaltimorebanner.com/sports/ravens-nfl/ravens-tyler-linderbaum-fifth-year-option-kyle-hamilton-contract-extension-7T6FDOSSSJGU7IN5QKDOCVMLQQ