Miami Dolphins Release Elite Defender Ahead of 2024 Season

The Miami Dolphins are releasing starting linebacker Jerome Baker, according to NFL insider Adam Schefter.

Schefter also says that Baker and the Dolphins discussed a restructured contract, but the two parties couldn’t come to terms that they both agreed upon. The Miami Dolphins are not completely closing the door on Baker as he can come back should he so choose.

Jerome Baker has been through thick and thin with the Miami Dolphins

Miami linebacker Jerome Baker was a part of the team for six years before being released. Initially a third-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Baker immediately contributed for the Dolphins defense.

It took until Baker’s third year in Miami to see a winning season. That 10-6 record during 2020 was just one of two times Baker would see the team get 10 or more wins in a season.

The Miami Dolphins are on their third head coach of Baker’s tenure. He started with head coach Adam Gase in 2018, saw mild success with head coach Brian Flores and finished his tenure with two wildcard losses under current head coach Mike McDaniel.

Baker has been with the Dolphins as bottom feeders of the AFC, and he has been with the Dolphins when they are in contention for the No. 1 seed.

Miami Dolphins linebacker Jerome Baker’s production declined due to injury in 2023

Dolphins linebacker Jerome Baker had the least productive season of his career this year due to injury. In every other season, Baker played 16 or 17 games. His 65 total tackles this year were his lowest ever as he only played in 13 games, even lower than the 73 tackles he amassed in his rookie year.

Baker had surgery on his wrist after the Dolphins lost 21-14 to the Buffalo Bills late in the season meaning he was unable to compete in the playoffs when the team needed him most. Baker explained the surgery went well in an article from Sports Illustrated.

“When i step out on the field I give it all for my brothers and the Dolphins organization,” Baker posted on X. “Had surgery this morning and it went well. Sad to say my season is over but we not done yet! Be back soon! We have unfinished business to handle and I know my brothers gon handle it!”

Despite Jerome Baker taking a step back in production, he took a step forward in his pass coverage ability. He had a career-high two interceptions this season, returning one for a touchdown. His three pass deflections were just one off of his career-high number despite playing in fewer games.

Jerome Baker Pick Six 😮‍💨😮‍💨@Lastname_Baker pic.twitter.com/u8XGofCtFF

— Barstool Ohio State (@BarstoolOSU) October 23, 2023

Baker’s 1.5 sacks was a far cry from his career high of seven. His future in the NFL remains uncertain, especially because he went into the offseason with newfound injury concerns.

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