Linderbaum, entering free agency at 25, is praised for ongoing improvements and high-level pass protection. He finished as one of the league’s highest-graded centers in recent seasons, with elite marks in pass blocking and run duties, making him a market-setting target for any contender seeking stability up front.
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta acknowledged the team has submitted a market-setting proposal to Linderbaum and expressed a strong desire to retain him, underscoring the importance the organization places on trench battles and continuity up front. If the Ravens and Linderbaum can’t reach a deal, the Raiders would face a viable alternative plan.
One backup plan gaining traction involves Lloyd Cushenberry, who recently cleared waivers after being released by the Titans. Cushenberry is a 28-year-old center with prior big‑ticket free-agent experience and a track record of solid performance when healthy, though he comes with the caveat of recovering from shoulder surgery.
Cushenberry’s familiarity with the interior lines and his ability to stabilize the center position could appeal to the Raiders as they assess their offensive line needs. He would provide a more cost-controlled option compared to Linderbaum, potentially allowing the Raiders to address other line spots in free agency or the draft.
If the Raiders pursue Cushenberry, it could align with head coach Klint Kubiak’s emphasis on stabilizing the line and establishing consistency at both guard and tackle positions. A combination featuring Cushenberry at center, with solid anchors at left tackle and other line spots, could yield meaningful improvement for the unit as the team builds around Mendoza’s development.
Overall, the decision hinges on whether the Raiders can lure Linderbaum away from Baltimore or pivot to Cushenberry as a reliable, economically feasible anchor at center. Either path would represent a strategic move to strengthen the trenches and support Mendoza’s transition to NFL starter status.
