2022: The Ravens drafted Linderbaum to step in as their immediate starter replacing Bradley Bozeman. Baltimore could have used Patrick Mekari at center, but the Ravens were looking to upgrade that spot and allow Mekari to do what he does best as a top reserve across the line and top competitor for the left guard spot. Linderbaum will be tasked with better protecting Lamar Jackson and helping to take the rushing attack to the next level.
Long-term: Linderbaum is the first center the Ravens have ever drafted in the first round. He is the seventh center taken in the first round in the past decade. Of the other six, three have gone to a Pro Bowl (Frank Ragnow, Ryan Kelly, Travis Frederick). Baltimore believes Linderbaum will be, at the least, a long-time high-quality starter. He has the potential to be a Pro Bowler.