The Los Angeles Chargers' dream target this offseason has long been crystal clear. Tyler Linderbaum of the Baltimore Ravens is one of the league's premier centers, and bringing him in would provide the offensive line with an anchor it's long lacked.
With free agency just over two weeks away, hope has arisen around the Chargers fanbase that Linderbaum will ultimately become available on the open market. Given Baltimore's current financial situation, it remains a distinct possibility.
Los Angeles still has over $87 million in cap space. They could make a highly competitive offer for Linderbaum's services if given the opportunity.
However, Ravens GM Eric DeCosta just put a major damper on those plans during his press conference at the NFL Combine, stating that the organization has already extended a "market-setting" offer to Linderbaum.
DeCosta said Ravens have made Tyler Linderbaum a “market-setting” offer.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) February 24, 2026
Although DeCosta did not provide specifics, this development is highly discouraging for the Chargers in their pursuit of Linderbaum. If Linderbaum never even hits the open market, Los Angeles will need to pivot to other options to replenish their depleted offensive line.
Ravens are doing everything they can to keep Linderbaum in the building
With the departure of Bradley Bozeman having been made official on Monday with the announcement of his retirement, Los Angeles is officially in search of a new center for 2026.
The hype surrounding Linderbaum has been more than justified. In any other situation, he would be considered a shoe-in to return to Baltimore. But the Ravens currently have just over $22 million in cap space, and they have needs to address on their defense this offseason as well.
Linderbaum is projected by Spotrac to earn a contract in the four year and $70 million range.
A "market-setting" offer for Linderbaum would likely equal or surpass the contract that Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey got in the 2024 offseason. This would put Linderbaum's annual salary at around $18 million.
It's not as though the Chargers can't match or beat this offer if they're truly motivated. But the best chance they had of even taking a shot at Linderbaum rested on the Ravens' inability to extend such an offer.
This update doesn't guarantee Linderbaum will not hit the open market, but it's certainly not good news for teams awaiting his availability.
There will be other options this offseason. Connor McGovern is also a free agent, and Los Angeles should be able to get a capable center in the draft if they choose to go that route. But Linderbaum presents a rare opportunity, and it would be a major disappointment if he signs an extension before free agency even begins.