The Raiders officially signed a three-year contract with center Linderbaum, valued at $81 million, making it the most lucrative deal for a center in the current market, which has surged from $18 million to $27 million per year. The contract is fully guaranteed, with the potential to avoid a $21 million salary in 2028 only if Linderbaum is cut after one season. Despite concerns about overpaying, particularly with Maxx Crosby’s contract looming, Linderbaum’s deal sets a new precedent for high-end centers. Owner Mark Davis may face scrutiny at the upcoming annual meeting, but the market for centers has undeniably shifted.
