One name continues to dominate the Detroit Lions offseason rumors, and it’s easy to understand why. Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum has emerged as one of the NFL’s elite interior offensive linemen, and if he ever reaches NFL free agency, the Lions are expected to be among the teams showing serious interest.
However, signing him would come at a historic price.
According to a rumor circulating on X (formerly Twitter), Linderbaum was seeking a contract worth roughly $20 million per season during previous negotiations. If that figure holds, it would make him the highest-paid center in NFL history, surpassing Kansas City Chiefs standout Creed Humphrey, who currently earns $18 million annually.
Such a deal would reset the market for centers league-wide.
Why Tyler Linderbaum Is a Perfect Fit for the Detroit Lions
Since entering the league, Linderbaum has quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s most complete centers. His combination of athleticism, intelligence, and consistency has made him the cornerstone of the Ravens’ offensive line.
Most importantly for Detroit, Linderbaum thrives in movement-based run schemes, the same style that powers the Lions’ offense behind Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. His ability to pull, reach the second level, and make pre-snap adjustments would seamlessly translate to Ben Johnson’s offensive system.
For a Lions team that values elite offensive line play, Linderbaum would represent a major upgrade in the middle.
Is a $20 Million Center Worth It?
A $20 million average annual value would place Linderbaum among the highest-paid offensive linemen in football, regardless of position. For a center, the number would be unprecedented.
That raises a critical question for Detroit: Is an elite center worth resetting the interior offensive line market?
General manager Brad Holmes has shown a willingness to invest heavily in premium trench players. While Linderbaum could help fill the long-term void left by Frank Ragnow, such a contract would also consume a significant portion of the Lions’ salary cap.
How Tyler Linderbaum Fits the Lions’ Super Bowl Window
The Detroit Lions are firmly in a Super Bowl window, built around young stars still playing on rookie contracts. That flexibility won’t last forever, which makes the timing of a potential splash signing even more intriguing.
Linderbaum is:
Still in his prime
Durable at a position that ages well
A proven leader with elite football IQ
Those traits align perfectly with what Dan Campbell and the Lions’ front office value most.
Final Thoughts on the Tyler Linderbaum Free Agency Rumor
Whether or not the Lions ultimately pursue him, the rumor alone is enough to spark excitement among fans.
If Tyler Linderbaum reaches free agency and truly commands $20 million per year, only teams willing to make history at the center position will be able to compete for his services.
For Detroit, the decision would come down to one thing: Is resetting the market worth securing one of the NFL’s best offensive linemen at the heart of a championship push?
