The Detroit Lions have lost a key target in free agency. The Las Vegas Raiders signed a prospect they had eyes on to a record $81 million deal, leaving Jared Goff and the Lions scrambling for protection.

According to ESPN Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter, shared on X, Tyler Linderbaum has reached a record deal with the Raiders. Former Ravens free agent bagged an $81 million contract for 3 years with $60 million guaranteed money. With this Raiders and Tyler deal, he became the highest-paid interior offensive lineman in NFL history.  

For moving on with the “GRIT” and “Duo-paired” philosophies, head coach Dan Campbell was looking for a competent center for QB Jared Goff. As mentioned by the PFSN’s Player OL Impact Metric, Tyler is ranked 3rd among all centers in 2025. Making him a key piece to strengthen the Lions' lineup.

With the recent release of veteran players David Montgomery, Graham Glasgow, and Taylor Decker, a lot of the experience is gone.

Initially drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, he played 66 games and was in the starting lineup for all of them. Before joining the Ravens, he played two seasons with the NCAA Iowa Hawkeyes.

Detroit Lions Forced to Pivot After Linderbaum Miss

After losing Tyler Linderbaum to the Raiders, the Lions' search for the starting center in free agency continues. There are alternatives the Lions can potentially add to their roster for Jared Goff.

Pairing Jared Goff with Connor McGovern would give the Detroit Lions a reliable plug-and-play center. In 2025, McGovern logged 1,037 snaps, allowed zero sacks, and just 14 pressures. That interior stability suits Goff’s pocket style while supporting Detroit’s quick-game passing and inside-zone rushing rhythm.

Ethan Pocic offers a different path for Detroit. Pocic allowed two sacks and 14 pressures in 826 snaps, showing starting-level production in zone schemes.

Luke Fortner presents a younger, cost-effective option for the Detroit Lions. Over 675 snaps, he allowed three sacks and zero QB hits, showing steady interior positioning. His mobility could improve snap-to-throw timing for Jared Goff.

Drop your thought in the comments: which center should the Detroit Lions target to protect Jared Goff and strengthen the offensive line next season?

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi