Miami Dolphins release linebacker Jerome Baker after failing to reach agreement on restructured contract
It appears the Miami Dolphins are moving on from another starter on defense – at least for now. The team reportedly released starting linebacker Jerome Baker on Tuesday after being unable to agree to a contract restructure with their veteran defender, per Adam Schefter and multiple other outlets. Per Spotrac.com, the move saved the Dolphins […]
It appears the Miami Dolphins are moving on from another starter on defense – at least for now.
The team reportedly released starting linebacker Jerome Baker on Tuesday after being unable to agree to a contract restructure with their veteran defender, per Adam Schefter and multiple other outlets. Per Spotrac.com, the move saved the Dolphins $9.8 million in cap space.
Interestingly, the Dolphins announced the roster move on Tuesday as a release/failed physical notation. Baker suffered a knee injury in Week 13 against the Washington Commanders, which necessitated him being placed on injured reserve. He was activated off of injured reserve ahead of the Dolphins' pivotal Week 18 matchup with the Buffalo Bills. He left the game with a wrist injury, which ended his season and required surgery.
Baker could still potentially return to the Dolphins on a new deal if that can be worked out with the team. However, while there are a number of free agent linebackers hitting the market, the star power isn't high among them, so there could be outside interest. That is, if the wrist isn't a lasting issue.
Baker was the Dolphins' third-round draft choice in 2018. He signed a three-year, $37.5 million contract extension with the team back in June 2021 that carried him under contract through the 2024 season. His best statistical season came in 2020, when he totaled 112 combined tackles with a career-high 7 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, 3 passes defended, and 2 forced fumbles.
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