The NFL announced that the 2026 free agent negotiation window opens on March 9

The Baltimore Ravens added 11 players in last April’s NFL draft. Eric DeCosta would like to create or extend a potential Super Bowl window, thanks to an MVP-caliber quarterback, elite talent, and several critical positions.

Regardless of the outcome of this season, that window could be altered, with the Ravens initially having 25 players who’ll either test restricted or unrestricted free agency during the 2026 NFL off-season. Several key factors include a pending contract extension for Lamar Jackson and the contract status for Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum.

Odafe Oweh was one of the biggest names on the list, but the offense could look drastically different with Mark Andrews getting a new deal, while Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar will test free agency.

The new league year is fast approaching, and with less than one month until January 1, the NFL released key dates for the next calendar year. The most important date after the Super Bowl is the early negotiation window. That’ll open on March 9, giving teams two days to negotiate before free agency and the new league year kicks off on March 11.

Key free agentsC Tyler Linderbaum (2nd)

What ESPN said. Linderbaum has a tone-setting mentality on the interior of the front with the foot speed and body control to match pass rushers and climb to the second level in the run game. Linderbaum’s pass block win rate of 95.5% ranks eighth among centers this season, and his 70.0% run block win rate is 16th. — Bowen

What we’re hearing: Linderbaum is considered a top-10 interior offensive lineman in the eyes of execs, coaches and scouts. That makes him an expensive option, poised to become one of the highest-paid centers. The Ravens have discussed an extension with Linderbaum but are not within striking distance on a deal. When the Ravens declined his fifth-year option in the spring, that enhanced his chances for free agency. — Fowler

TE Isaiah Likely (9th)

What ESPN said.

Likely’s alignment versatility gives offensive playcallers more flexibility, and he has the catch-and-run traits to produce on high-percentage throws. Likely should be viewed as a “move” tight end who brings matchup upside. He has 10 catches for 103 yards this season, and he caught six touchdown passes in 2024. — Bowen

What we’re hearing: Several team executives anticipate Likely doing very well in free agency because he can serve as a matchup problem who can separate from coverage. Part of the equation: The tight end franchise tag in 2026 is very reasonable ($15.8 million). Some people I’ve talked to inside the league would not be surprised if Baltimore tags him, especially with its top three tight ends hitting free agency. — Fowler