The Baltimore Ravens have made a decisive move to reinforce their offensive line, signing veteran center Danny Pinter to a one-year contract following the departure of starting center Tyler Linderbaum in free agency. The deal, reported on March 17, 2026, by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, is valued at $2.25 million with incentives that could push it to $2.75 million, according to The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec. This acquisition comes as the Ravens look to address pressing questions at both the center and guard positions ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
Pinter, 29, arrives in Baltimore after spending his entire professional career with the Indianapolis Colts. A native of South Bend, Indiana, and a Ball State alumnus, Pinter was selected by the Colts in the fifth round (No. 149 overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft. Over five seasons in Indianapolis, he appeared in 77 games and started 10, demonstrating notable versatility by lining up at both center and right guard. His adaptability has long been considered a valuable asset, especially for teams seeking depth and flexibility along the offensive front.
The Ravens’ need for experienced help was made urgent by Linderbaum’s exit to the Las Vegas Raiders. While Corey Bullock, last year’s backup, remains a promising in-house option, Baltimore’s front office, led by general manager Eric DeCosta, recognized the importance of adding a seasoned presence. DeCosta had previously indicated that the team would evaluate multiple offensive linemen in the coming weeks, and Pinter’s visit quickly led to an agreement.
Pinter’s journey has not been without setbacks. He missed the entire 2023 season due to a season-ending fractured left ankle but returned to the Colts on a one-year deal in 2024. That season, he appeared in 14 games and started at center in Weeks 13 and 15. Notably, he earned a career-high 82.9 Pro Football Focus (PFF) overall grade as a starter during the Colts’ Week 13 win over the New England Patriots, showcasing his potential when called upon in big moments. In 2025, Pinter played all 17 games, making just one start and participating in 13 percent of offensive snaps and 17 percent of special teams snaps. His PFF grade dipped to 56.5 in a reserve role, but his consistent presence and willingness to contribute wherever needed did not go unnoticed.
For the Ravens, Pinter’s arrival is about more than just plugging a hole. The team has been actively reshaping its offensive line following several offseason changes. John Simpson, who has started all 17 games for three consecutive seasons, is considered a favorite for the right guard spot due to his durability and reliability. Meanwhile, Daniel Faalele’s future with the squad remains uncertain, and the team’s depth at both guard and center is still a work in progress.
Despite Pinter’s experience, there are lingering questions about his suitability for a starting role. Over five NFL seasons, he has started only 10 games, a statistic that gives some observers pause. Still, his versatility and work ethic make him an ideal candidate for a rotational role or as a spot starter should injuries or further roster moves dictate. As one report noted, “The issue with Pinter taking a starting role is his limited starts in the NFL. Only starting 10 games is a bit of a concern, but DeCosta is certainly trying to upgrade the line with potential backups and rotational players.”
The Ravens’ approach to roster building under DeCosta has typically favored drafting and developing talent over making splashy free agency signings. This philosophy remains evident as the team continues to scout potential long-term solutions in the NFL Draft. Baltimore has been linked to prospects like Miami’s Francis Mauigoa and Penn State’s Vega Ioane, both of whom are regarded as promising young linemen. However, neither is considered a true center, and both would likely begin their professional careers transitioning to guard. This reality further underscores the importance of Pinter’s ability to play multiple positions.
Adding to the intrigue, the Ravens’ offseason has already included its share of drama. The failed attempt to acquire star pass rusher Maxx Crosby and the loss of Linderbaum have left the front office balancing the need for immediate reinforcements with a long-term vision. As the offseason progresses, Baltimore’s strategy appears to be a blend of veteran signings like Pinter and calculated draft investments, aiming to create a deep and adaptable offensive line group.
Pinter’s contract details also shed light on his projected role. The one-year, $2.25 million deal, with incentives that could raise the total to $2.75 million, is in line with what teams typically offer experienced backups or potential spot starters rather than entrenched first-stringers. As noted by The Athletic, “Pinter’s contract suggests he’s not necessarily Baltimore’s first choice to start at center. But with his experience, he should at least provide depth and an option if needed.”
Looking back at his time with the Colts, Pinter finished his rookie contract—valued at $3,643,698 with a $348,696 signing bonus—before returning on consecutive one-year deals in 2024 and 2025. His perseverance in overcoming injury and remaining a reliable contributor speaks volumes about his character and professionalism. Over 77 career games, he has proven capable of stepping into the lineup at a moment’s notice, a quality the Ravens’ coaching staff will undoubtedly appreciate as they prepare for the rigors of the AFC North.
For Indianapolis, Pinter’s departure adds backup center to their list of offseason needs. The Colts, who have relied on his versatility for five seasons, must now search for a replacement who can provide similar depth and flexibility up front. Meanwhile, Baltimore’s acquisition of Pinter is a calculated move to ensure the offensive line remains a team strength, even as they navigate significant personnel changes.
As the Ravens continue to shape their roster for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Pinter integrates into the offensive line rotation. With the NFL Draft still ahead and further moves possible, the battle for starting roles at both guard and center promises to be one of the most closely watched storylines in Baltimore’s training camp.
For now, Danny Pinter represents a steady, experienced addition to a Ravens team determined to maintain its edge in the trenches. Whether he emerges as a starter or serves as a trusted backup, his signing is another step in Baltimore’s ongoing quest for offensive line stability—and perhaps, a deeper playoff run in 2026.