Linderbaum Makes History as Highest-Paid Interior Lineman (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Henderson, Nevada – The Las Vegas Raiders introduced center Tyler Linderbaum, wide receiver Jalen Nailor, defensive end Kwity Paye, and linebacker Quay Walker during a press conference Thursday at the Intermountain Health Performance Center.[1][2]
Linderbaum Makes History as Highest-Paid Interior Lineman
Tyler Linderbaum arrived with immediate star power, securing a three-year, $81 million contract that includes $60 million guaranteed and marks him as the NFL’s highest-paid interior offensive lineman ever.[3] The former Ravens first-round pick spoke glowingly of the Raiders’ direction. “It already feels like home. (We have the) right people to turn this thing around,” he said, crediting general manager John Spytek and the front office.[1]
Linderbaum started all 66 games over four seasons in Baltimore, earning three straight Pro Bowl nods. His blocking fueled a Ravens rushing attack that topped the league in yards per carry last season at 5.3.[4] He expressed eagerness to join forces with edge rusher Maxx Crosby, a familiar foe from past matchups.
New Additions Eager to Pair with Crosby’s Intensity
Quay Walker highlighted the defensive potential alongside Crosby and Paye. “His athleticism is so much… I just love his play style and I can’t wait to play alongside him,” Walker noted.[1] The ex-Packers linebacker posted a career-high 128 tackles in 2025 and led Green Bay in stops for four straight years.[5]
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Kwity Paye called the idea of rushing with Crosby “crazy just seeing him pursue.” Paye brings 30.5 career sacks and 209 tackles from his time with the Colts, excelling as a run defender with 34 tackles for loss.[6][3] Jalen Nailor, a Bishop Gorman product, celebrated his homecoming. “It means the most to me… It’s just a blessing to be here,” he said. Nailor tallied 69 receptions for 1,066 yards and 11 touchdowns across four Vikings seasons.[7]
Contract Breakdown Signals Long-Term Investment
| Player | Position | Contract Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tyler Linderbaum | C | 3 years, $81M ($60M guaranteed)[3] |
| Jalen Nailor | WR | 3 years, $35M ($23M guaranteed)[3] |
| Kwity Paye | DE | 3 years, $48M ($32M guaranteed)[3] |
| Quay Walker | LB | 3 years, $40.5M ($28M guaranteed)[3] |
These deals reflect the Raiders’ aggressive push after a 3-14 campaign, targeting immediate starters across trenches and skill positions.[3]
Filling Critical Gaps in Rebuild Effort
The newcomers address key weaknesses. Linderbaum bolsters an offensive line primed for a dominant ground game, mirroring his Ravens success.[4] Nailor adds speed and local appeal to the receiving corps.
- Paye strengthens edge run defense with proven disruption skills.
- Walker injects tackling prowess into a linebacker room boosted by Nakobe Dean’s addition.
- All four praised new defensive coordinator Rob Leonard’s scheme.
With Crosby retained after a failed trade, the defense gains elite talent to pressure quarterbacks and stop runs.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Raiders invested over $200 million in core free agents, prioritizing trenches and playmakers.
- Linderbaum’s deal sets a benchmark; others bring youth and production.
- Presser vibes signal unity, with eyes on contention under Spytek’s vision.
The introductions capped a whirlwind free agency start, positioning the Raiders for a turnaround. Fans now watch how these pieces gel in training camp. What do you think of the Raiders’ haul? Tell us in the comments.
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