Baltimore Ravens Select Tyler Linderbaum
For the fifth time since 2015, the Iowa Hawkeyes have a first round selection in the NFL Draft. The former Rimington Trophy winner Tyler Linderbaum was selected 25th overall by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2022 NFL Draft. Linderbaum becomes the sixth offensive lineman selected since 2015 and the first in the first round since Tristin Wirfs in 2020.
Linderbaum Lands in Baltimore
The Ravens are in need of a quality center who excels in run scheme blocking. They found it in Linderbaum. The new Raven has the quickness in his lower half needed to get off the line and establish leverage at the point of attack. Linderbaum will be a great fit in Baltimore. The Ravens like to put the football on the ground whether it be Lamar Jackson scrambling or on the feet of their backfield. Their offensive versatility will put Linderbaum in a great position to excel as a two-phase blocker.
The center is slightly under 300 pounds with 31⅛” arm length, both of which are under league average. However, Linderbaum makes up for both of these with his quickness and technique. His run-blocking speed at the second level is exceptional, and he has shown a unique ability to keep up with his running backs downfield. In pass-protection, Linderbaum keeps his hands inside on the defender, maintaining great balance and footwork. The former Hawkeye was not flagged for a single penalty last season and allowed just one sack.
Baltimore Ravens Select Tyler Linderbaum
The Ravens were able to grab Linderbaum at 25th overall. They will get one of the best centers in Iowa history who has All-Pro potential. Near the end of the first round, Baltimore stole a dynamic pass blocker with great body control on the line of scrimmage. The former wrestler actually took down Wirfs in high school. He will now join his former teammate as another first round offensive line selection from Iowa.
