After signing edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, it’s safe to say the Baltimore Ravens are back on the rise heading into 2026. Unfortunately, just as one pressing need is filled, another one opens. At the moment, the center spot is undoubtedly the biggest question mark surrounding the roster.
For the first time since 2022, the Ravens are searching for a new center, as three-time Pro Bowler Tyler Linderbaum departed for the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency. It’s already agonizing to see such a talented player leave, but what makes it even tougher is the lack of center talent in free agency. It’s obvious that general manager Eric DeCosta will look to address that in the 2026 NFL Draft.
According to ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Linderbaum's replacement could come in the form of Utah’s Spencer Fano. In his latest mock draft, he had Baltimore selecting Fano with the 14th pick. Kiper wrote:
“Teams worked out Fano at center during the combine, and he could absolutely handle that role as a replacement for Tyler Linderbaum on the Ravens. Fano could also join the new addition, John Simpson, as a starting guard. And on top of all that, he'd provide much-needed depth behind Ronnie Stanley and Roger Rosengarten at tackle.”
Baltimore Ravens could replace Tyler Linderbaum with Spencer Fano
Kiper’s explanation for the Fano selection makes perfect sense. The Ravens desperately need guard and center help. With shorter arms, Fano has been projected as an interior lineman. If he works out as a guard? Great. If he works out as a center? Even better.
Between the two spots, center is obviously the bigger need. Baltimore signed John Simpson to a three-year, $30 million deal, and they have a ton of depth next to him. Andrew Vorhees struggled in 2025, but remains an option, and 2025 third-round pick Emery Jones Jr. has flashed and could start opposite Simpson. Sure, they could use a stronger starting option, but if you’re going to kick Fano inside, why not try him as a center instead of guard? He could certainly get it done there.
Fano’s lack of length would likely lead to a tough transition to the NFL level as a tackle. However, life could look much better for him at guard or center. He’s one heck of an athlete, using it to effortlessly mirror defenders and get out into space in the run game. He’s quick with his hands, too, firing off punches before rushers have much time to react. Those are traits that teams would love to have in a center.
Linderbaum possesses that quick footwork and athleticism, which Baltimore will look to replace. It will be a different offense under new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, but much of it may remain the same, as they focus on their rushing attack and hunting explosive plays. With that in mind, Fano could be a very worthy replacement for Linderbaum. And if not a center, he could make a pretty darn good guard.