Raiders are expected to make a strong push in free agency towards a player that almost every team wants
The Raiders need a center, too.
The Las Vegas Raiders are poised to redefine their identity. While immediate playoff contention under Klint Kubiak seems unlikely in Year 1, establishing a clear identity is crucial for future success.
With that comes the need to make necessary changes to get this team where it needs to be. The Raiders have outstanding resources: the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which could deliver their franchise quarterback, and nearly $90 million in cap space to spend in free agency. Turning this team around must start on the offensive line and in the trenches. Fortunately, the Raiders are set to pursue one of the most sought-after offensive linemen.
Raiders expected to make free agency push for center Tyler Linderbaum
“Expect the Las Vegas Raiders to make a very strong run at the Ravens’ star center Tyler Linderbaum, who is going to set records with his eventual payday. He’ll have many suitors, but I’m told the Raiders, who have a ton of cap space, very much like the idea of a stud like Linderbaum lining up in front of the No. 1 overall pick if Las Vegas does, in fact, draft Fernando Mendoza.” – Matthew Berry, NBC Sports Analyst
Last season, the Raiders faced challenges at center and along the interior line. They drafted Jackson Powers-Johnson, who became their starting center after playing both guard and center in college. Despite performing well as a rookie in 2024, he was in a confusing position battle. He played well at guard, but center seemed his natural position.
If the Raiders feel like JPJ is going to be their guard of the future, then going after Tyler Linderbaum, the former Baltimore Ravens center, makes a ton of sense. And, in a way, this should tell you that they view JPJ as a guard. However, JPJ gives them flexibility. If they can’t land a center in free agency, they have one in JPJ, and it allows them to search for a guard instead.
Linderbaum is among the league’s best centers. Sports Info Solutions reports that in 954 total snaps, he had just 17 blown blocks—an impressive feat. Pro Football Focus ranks him as the fourth-best run-blocking center and a solid pass-blocker. The Raiders need help in both areas. Linderbaum’s projected value is $17.7 million yearly, which the Raiders can afford.
Las Vegas Raiders News
Raiders have shown interest in trading for a player who would instantly make their defense better and knock a need off their draft list
The Raiders need a linebacker like Edmunds.
