Ravens insider fuels fan optimism with recent prediction for foundational star

With NFL free agency rapidly approaching, all Baltimore Ravens fans are focused on Tyler Linderbaum. The current momentum makes it seem like the Ravens are likely to re-sign Linderbaum, although he has a robust market. Eric DeCosta openly said they have made a market-setting offer to Linderbaum. These comments made Ravens fans somewhat optimistic about Linderbaum's future.

Recently, Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic wrote an article predicting the futures of all 19 Ravens unrestricted free agents. He noted that it's not a guarantee, specifically mentioning that it was unclear if the Ravens would go above $22 million a year to retain Linderbaum, and he'd be a hot commodity on the open market. Regardless, Linderbaum was one of the seven players Zrebiec predicted would stay in Baltimore, and he noted that Linderbaum values playing for a contender.

"The wild card is Linderbaum. The no-frills guy is comfortable in Baltimore and relishes being on an annual contender. Will he take a little less to stay? The bet here is yes, but it might be hard to resist the amount of money he could make on the open market," Zrebiec wrote. 

Zrebiec's ultimate verdict that Linderbaum will stay in Baltimore and the mention of him possibly taking a hometown discount should delight Ravens fans. Surprises can always happen, but for now, there's optimism that Linderbaum will be back next season. 

Re-signing Linderbaum will be vital for the Ravens

Currently, Creed Humphrey is the highest-paid center at $18.1 million -- that's not small potatoes by any means. Even if the Ravens overpay for Linderbaum in a vacuum, though, the alternative of losing him is far worse.

Baltimore's offensive line was a clear weakness last season, allowing Lamar Jackson to be sacked 36 times. Nevertheless, Linderbaum was a clear bright spot in an otherwise mediocre group. 

Linderbaum has made three straight Pro Bowls, and metrics from Pro Football Focus (PFF) indicate he's a top-five center in the league. Plus, at 25, Linderbaum has several productive years ahead of him. Losing such a skilled center would be nothing short of devastating for Baltimore, especially given the limited options in free agency. 

Thankfully, it seems likely that the Ravens will avoid this problem and retain Linderbaum. New offensive coordinator Declan Doyle has discussed making the Ravens' offense more explosive, and to do that, Lamar needs ample protection. Likewise, to continue their elite run game, retaining Linderbaum will be key.

Ultimately, free agency will be a stressful time for Ravens fans, but for now, they should be able to take a deep breath as it looks like a Linderbaum return is still very much on the table.