The Raiders just made one of the biggest investments of the offseason.
And their new star lineman is already embracing the challenge — and welcoming Maxx Crosby back to the locker room.

Raiders’ Tyler Linderbaum Excited to Join Klint Kubiak’s Offense — and Play With Maxx Crosby

LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Raiders made a major statement in free agency by signing three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to a record-setting contract.

Now the veteran offensive lineman is already looking ahead to the future — and he’s thrilled about two things: joining Klint Kubiak’s new offense and sharing the locker room with Maxx Crosby.

During his introductory press conference, Linderbaum said he avoided getting caught up in the drama surrounding the Raiders’ failed trade that would have sent Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens.

Instead, he focused on one simple thought: he’s happy Crosby is staying in Las Vegas.

“I’d love Maxx to be here and play with him,” Linderbaum said. “I’ve gone against him, and he’s not fun to go against. His ability to lead a team is pretty special.”

A Record-Setting Contract

Linderbaum’s deal with the Raiders shattered the previous record for the highest-paid interior offensive lineman in the NFL.

But the 26-year-old made it clear he understands the expectations that come with that kind of contract.

“It means a lot and I don’t take that lightly,” he said. “At the end of the day, I have to prove it every day on the field and earn my coaches’ and teammates’ trust.”

The Raiders clearly view Linderbaum as a foundational piece of their rebuild.

Why Linderbaum Chose the Raiders

As one of the top free agents on the market, Linderbaum had several teams interested in signing him.

Ultimately, he said the decision came down to fit.

The opportunity to play in Klint Kubiak’s offensive system and be part of a rebuilding team convinced him Las Vegas was the right destination.

“I’m excited about what Coach Kubiak is going to build here,” Linderbaum said. “I think it fits my play style, and I believe the organization is headed in the right direction.”

Helping Develop the Raiders’ Future Quarterback

One major reason the Raiders invested so heavily at center is their expected No. 1 overall draft pick, quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

The young quarterback is expected to lead the next era of Raiders football, and the team wants a reliable offensive line to support him.

Linderbaum will play a critical role in helping Mendoza transition to the NFL — especially since Kubiak’s offense requires quarterbacks to take snaps under center, something Mendoza has rarely done in his career.

“It’s going to take work,” Linderbaum said. “Everybody has to be on the same page and communicate.”

A Ground-Game Identity

Linderbaum also emphasized that the offensive line’s mindset will be built around running the football.

That philosophy could benefit running back Ashton Jeanty, who is expected to see increased opportunities in Kubiak’s offense.

“As an offensive lineman, that’s your bread and butter — being able to run the football,” Linderbaum explained. “It takes all five guys working together.”

A New Challenge Ahead

Linderbaum spent his first four NFL seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, one of the league’s most successful organizations.

While he’s grateful for that experience, he says he’s excited to take on a new leadership role in Las Vegas.

“I’m thankful for the four years I had there,” he said. “But I’m excited for the next challenge and helping this team move forward.”

For the Raiders, that next chapter begins with building a stronger offensive foundation — and Tyler Linderbaum is right at the center of it.