The Baltimore Ravens are actively pursuing contract extensions with safety Kyle Hamilton, tight end Isaiah Likely, and center Tyler Linderbaum as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season, according to ESPN reporter Dan Graziano. These negotiations aim to secure the futures of important contributors to the team amidst the looming salary cap challenges.
Current Contract Status and Team Decisions
Isaiah Likely and Tyler Linderbaum are approaching free agency, while the Ravens have exercised the fifth-year option on Kyle Hamilton, guaranteeing him an $18.6 million salary in 2026. However, unlike Hamilton, the Ravens declined Linderbaum’s fifth-year option, a move driven by financial considerations rather than doubts about his performance. General manager Eric DeCosta explained that the decision was influenced by the market, as Linderbaum’s option would have cost $23.4 million, over $5 million more than the highest average salary for centers in the league.
Balancing Payroll with Lamar Jackson’s Future Contract
Securing contract extensions with Hamilton, Likely, and Linderbaum is essential for DeCosta to manage the team’s long-term payroll structure, especially considering the impending renegotiation of quarterback Lamar Jackson’s deal. Jackson, a two-time MVP, is expected to become the league’s highest-paid player with a contract likely exceeding $55 million annually, potentially surpassing $60 million.
Structuring Jackson’s contract properly will be crucial for maintaining a competitive roster around him. The Ravens may face tough decisions, including the potential loss of homegrown talents like Hamilton, Linderbaum, or Likely if salary cap constraints force difficult choices. However, the team remains hopeful about retaining these players as part of their championship aspirations.
Possibility of Extension News in the Coming Months
While no deals appear imminent, Dan Graziano cautioned that updates could surface in the next few months as the Ravens continue negotiations. Locking down these key players before the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season would provide clarity for Baltimore’s roster planning moving forward.
“It doesn’t sound like anything is imminent with any of those, but don’t be surprised if you hear news on one or more of them over the next few months,”
—Dan Graziano, NFL Insider