Ravens not close on extension with two-time Pro Bowler
The Baltimore Ravens have signaled their desire to sign center Tyler Linderbaum to an extension before he hits free agency, but the two sides “are not within striking distance of a deal,” per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
The Ravens did not pick up the fifth-year option for Linderbaum this offseason, making 2025 a contract year for the 2022 first-round pick. Because the NFL groups all offensive linemen together for contract designations, Linderbaum’s fifth-year option would have come in at $23.4M. That’s an appropriate price for a top tackle, but far too much money for a center.
Linderbaum, a two-time Pro Bowler, is likely looking to reset the center market, which Creed Humphrey currently tops at $18M per year. Inflating Humphrey’s contract to match the 2025 salary cap would yield a $19.7M APY for Linderbaum. That feels a little high given Linderbaum’s struggles in pass protection this year, not just relative to Humphrey, but to the entire league. The fourth-year Raven has allowed 16 pressures this year, the fifth-most among all centers, per Pro Football Focus (subscription required). He is on pace to eclipse the 29 pressures he allowed as a rookie; in 2023 and 2024, he allowed 18 and 19 pressures, respectively.
Baltimore is in a tough spot. Pay for interior offensive linemen has exploded in the last few offseasons, and Linderbaum would be one of the best centers to hit free agency in recent years. That could create a bidding war if he hits the open market, something he and his representation are sure to know as they negotiate with the Ravens.
A franchise or transition tag is not an option, either. The first would be $27.2M, and the second would be $24.6M, per OverTheCap. Besides the inflated value for a center, the Ravens would also struggle to absorb a one-year cap hit of that size, and their long-term financial situation isn’t pretty, either.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson is set to count for $74.5M against the cap in 2026, and though the Ravens want to lower the number with an extension, past negotiations indicate such a deal will take time. Defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike has an uncertain future after a season-ending neck injury; if the Ravens have to part ways with him this offseason, they will have to account for at least some of the dead money from his contract next year. Defensive tackle Travis Jones and tight end Isaiah Likely are also key young players whom the Ravens would like to retain. In fact, Madubuike’s injury and the pending free agency of all three of Baltimore’s tight ends could make those Jones and Likely just as much of a priority as Linderbaum. That’s not even mentioning other contract situations with players like running back Keaton Mitchell and punter Jordan Stout, among others.
As a result, negotiating a Linderbaum extension is only one part of a complicated financial picture for the Ravens. Between a potential Jackson extension, clarity on Madubuike’s future, and negotiations with Jones, Likely, and Linderbaum, general manager Eric DeCosta will have his hands full for the next several months as his team navigates the rest of the 2025 season and prepares for 2026.
BREAKING: David Letterman’s $1 Million Gift Lets Veterans Experience Indianapolis Colts Football Like Never Before
In a heartwarming and unexpected move that’s sending shockwaves through both the entertainment and sports worlds, talk show legend David Letterman has partnered with the Indianapolis Colts to do something truly extraordinary for veterans across the Hoosier State. While the iconic comedian and host is no stranger to charity, this time he’s gone above and beyond, donating a staggering $1 MILLION to ensure veterans and their families have access to discounted tickets at Colts games for the rest of the 2025 season.
In an exclusive statement, Letterman said, “The sacrifices our veterans have made can never truly be repaid, but I hope this can give them a moment of joy, a chance to experience the magic of Colts football with the respect and honor they deserve.”
This groundbreaking donation is part of a larger initiative between Letterman and the Colts, aimed at giving veterans the opportunity to attend home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, free from financial barriers. Letterman personally worked with the Colts’ ownership and community outreach department to create a program that would offer discounted tickets specifically for veterans, ensuring they can experience the excitement of live football at no cost to them.
Sources close to the talk show icon reveal that Letterman was deeply moved by the struggles that many veterans face, particularly those living in the Indianapolis area. “I’ve always admired the veterans here, and I wanted to find a way to give back to them,” Letterman explained.
This generous gesture is already being hailed as one of the most impactful community-driven actions in NFL history. By focusing on veterans—many of whom often feel overlooked—Letterman and the Colts are ensuring that those who served this country can feel the pride and excitement of being part of the Colts Nation.
Local veterans’ organizations and nonprofits are already working tirelessly to distribute the discounted tickets, making sure that every eligible veteran has a chance to attend a game. The program has already been called “a game-changer” by many veterans who have been able to attend games they never thought they would experience.
“This is a gift that means more than words can express,” said one local veteran. “David Letterman has shown that he truly understands the importance of honoring our service. This is a moment we’ll cherish forever.”
With the holiday season approaching and the Colts pushing for a playoff spot, this initiative is sure to bring more than just discounted tickets—it’s offering a symbol of gratitude and recognition for those who have given so much.
David Letterman’s initiative proves that, while sports are about winning on the field, the true victories happen off it—when communities come together and show their unwavering support for the people who have served and sacrificed for their country.
