The Baltimore Ravens remain one of the AFC’s top contenders entering the 2026 NFL season, but several important questions still need answers before the team begins its pursuit of a Super Bowl. Despite boasting an MVP-caliber quarterback in Lamar Jackson and one of the league’s most respected organizations, Baltimore faces a handful of roster decisions that could significantly influence its success this fall.
One of the biggest priorities involves settling the situation at center following the departure of longtime standout Tyler Linderbaum. Replacing a three-time Pro Bowl performer is never an easy task, particularly for an offense built around timing, communication and physicality at the line of scrimmage. Baltimore currently has internal candidates competing for the role, but establishing a clear starter before training camp reaches its peak would provide valuable stability for the entire offense.
Dec 21, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) scrambles against the New England Patriots during the first quarter of the game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-Imagn Images
The importance of the center position cannot be overstated, especially for a quarterback like Jackson. The player handling snaps is responsible for making protection calls, identifying defensive fronts and serving as a critical communicator along the offensive line. The sooner Baltimore identifies its preferred option, the sooner that unit can develop chemistry and continuity heading into the regular season.
Another area drawing attention is the wide receiver room. While the Ravens possess talented pass catchers, there remains a belief that adding an experienced veteran could further strengthen the offense. Baltimore has a history of bringing in accomplished veterans who can contribute immediately while providing leadership in the locker room. A proven receiver would add another layer to an offense already capable of challenging defenses in multiple ways.
Bleacher Report’s NFL Expert Highlights 3 Things Baltimore Ravens Must Do Ahead of 2026 Season
Aug 16, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Baltimore must accomplish three things before the new NFL season starts. This is detailed more in an analysis by Brent Sobleski for Bleacher Report.
Name a starting center.
Sign a veteran wide receiver.
Establish a legitimate RB2.
Plenty of work must be done on the offensive side of the ball for the Baltimore Ravens.
Three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum leaving to join the Las Vegas Raiders is a major loss, with no clear replacement. Either Danny Pinter or Jovaughn Gwyn will be named the new snapper. The sooner, the better.
Baltimore also wanted to get bigger and more physical at wide receiver. The organization has never had a problem bringing in aging veterans who can still play. For example, Keenan Allen could round out the team’s pass-catchers quite nicely.
Lastly, Derrick Henry remains an offensive focal point, even at 32. No other running back currently on the roster ran for over 100 yards last season. A legitimate rotation is necessary to extend his career and expand the team’s offensive package.
The running back position also remains a topic of discussion. Derrick Henry continues to be one of the most productive backs in football, but managing his workload has become increasingly important. At this stage of his career, having a dependable secondary option could help preserve his effectiveness throughout a long season while creating additional flexibility within the offensive game plan. A stronger rotation would allow Baltimore to remain fresh and unpredictable.
The Ravens have assembled a roster talented enough to compete with anyone in the league, which is why expectations remain high entering the season. However, championship teams often separate themselves by addressing potential weaknesses before they become problems. If Baltimore can solidify the center position, add another receiving option and establish a reliable backup running back, the organization could enter the 2026 campaign in an even stronger position to challenge for a Super Bowl title.