The Ravens had until May 1 to decide on Kyle Hamilton and Tyler Linderbaum’s fifth-year options, and GM Eric DeCosta was in no rush to announce a conclusion. NFL rookies are given four-year contracts when they enter the league; first-round picks include a team option for a fifth season, which teams can choose to pick up or decline.
Hamilton made this an easy decision, but the organization took its time. Since he’s been to two Pro Bowls, Hamilton would cost $18.6 million for the 2026 season.
Advertisement
Just hours before the deadline, the Ravens announced the decision for Hamilton, with no announcement on Linderbaum.
Hamilton was selected 14th overall out of Notre Dame, while Linderbaum was selected 25th out of Iowa. Hamilton is a no-brainer, and he’ll likely reset the market for safeties after Antoine Winfield’s $80 million deal. Linderbaum could have his option declined while Baltimore looks to work out a long-term contract with more manageable numbers for the center.
Hamilton was the youngest defensive starter named to the Pro Bowl, quickly emerging as the NFL’s premier safety in his second season. Hamilton plays with poise and maturity while allowing new Ravens DC Zach Orr to implement a dynamic and versatile scheme with three safeties on the field. Last season, Hamilton had the second-highest Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of any safety in the league, trailing only Joseph and his league-leading nine interceptions. Hamilton is the NFL’s only defensive back to post at least 100 tackles, an interception, two sacks, and two forced fumbles.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens exercise fifth-year option on Kyle Hamilton ahead of deadline