‘The foundation of the Baltimore Ravens’ dominant offensive line is showing significant cracks, as a contract standoff with one of its brightest stars threatens to send him to free agency. Center Tyler Linderbaum has reportedly declined a new contract in the offseason, as per NFL Insider Jason La Canfora.

“The Ravens have been unable to reach a contract extension with center Tyler Linderbaum,” wrote Jason. “A former first-round pick who is poised to cash in big when free agency opens in March.”

The 25-year-old was selected by the Ravens in the first round (25th overall pick) in the 2022 NFL Draft. Coming from the Iowa Hawkeyes, he was a prolific name in college football, winning the Rimington Trophy. When he grabbed the rookie contract with the two-time Super Bowl champions, he carried the weight of expectations, and he certainly delivered in the past four seasons.

From the rookie season, he became a starter. In fact, he started every NFL game he played (66). Apart from his rookie season, he secured a Pro Bowl selection every year, making the young center already a three-time Pro Bowler.

Despite his exceptional performance for the Purple Pain, they have major concerns in the offseason. Tyler’s four-year rookie contract, which he signed for about $13 million, is expiring in March, creating uncertainty over his future because he has yet to re-sign.

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If his contract indeed expires by next month, the three-time Pro Bowler could become one of the highest-paid centers in the league by getting picked by a different team.

While Jesse Minter wouldn’t like losing one of the most impactful players of the offense in his debut season as the Ravens’ head coach, it looks possible. Meanwhile, in 2025, the franchise could have extended the 25-year-old’s contract to a fifth year, yet they refused, not because of his on-field performance but financial burden.

Unless Tyler and his camp are convinced to sign an extension, Jesse Minter could very well risk losing his player to free agency.That being said, the franchise has a potential replacement lined up if Tyler chooses not to re-sign after March.

Connor McGovern could be the replacement for Tyler Linderbaum

According to La Canfora, the Ravens have identified the Buffalo Bills‘ center, Connor McGovern, as the potential alternative for Tyler next season due to his extensive experience and remarkable seven-season NFL career.

“The Ravens are eyeing former Bills and Cowboys standout Connor McGovern as a replacement,” Canfora said.

McGovern was initially picked by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2019 NFL Draft. After spending four seasons with the Cowboys, he played for the Buffalo Bills in 2023, signing a three-year contract. Similar to Tyler, he is set to be a free agent in the offseason.

In the 2024 season, which was his breakout year, the 28-year-old won his first and only Pro Bowl, while he was also ranked sixth among the best NFL centers ahead of the 2025 season.

While McGovern may not be on the same level as Tyler, he is still capable of being a dependable replacement. Considering his years of experience in the league, Jesse Minter could potentially maximize his potential along with the Ravens’ offensive unit.