Las Vegas Raiders star Tyler Linderbaum does not have too far to reach to be considered the standard-setter at the center position in the NFL.
Pro Football Focus ranked Linderbaum No. 3 overall in their assessment of the top 32 centers in the league prior to the start of the 2026 season.
“Linderbaum’s elite run-blocking ability profiles perfectly for the diverse run scheme new head coach Klint Kubiak aims to deploy in 2026. The 26 year-old center has the movement skills to excel in zone concepts and the strength to anchor the interior in gap concepts. His grading profile supports what you see on tape, as Linderbaum has posted a top five PFF run-blocking grade among centers in three of his four seasons as a pro.”
Kansas City Chiefs star Creed Humphrey
(No. 1), and Miami Dolphins center Aaron Brewer (No. 2) were ranked ahead of Linderbaum.
The 26-year-old Linderbaum allowed only two sacks and 26 total pressures last season as a member of the Baltimore Ravens. He helped the Ravens put forth the most dangerous rushing attack in the NFL over the course of the last two seasons, blocking for two-time AP MVP Lamar Jackson and superstar running back Derrick Henry.
He will get the chance to unseat Kansas City Chiefs star Creed Humphrey as being considered the best player at the position in 2026, in the event that he helps transform the Raiders’ rushing attack next season and keeps Las Vegas’ quarterbacks protected in the pocket.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Raiders star Tyler Linderbaum among Pro Football Focus top NFL centers
