Jerome Baker's time with the Miami Dolphins is over.
After the two sides failed to agree on a restructured contract, the Dolphins released the former Ohio State linebacker, saving about $9.8 million in salary cap space for next season.
Dolphins are releasing starting linebacker Jerome Baker, per source. The two sides discussed a restructured contract, but couldnt reach an agreement. The Dolphins left the door open to him coming back if he chooses. pic.twitter.com/PApltNdj0a
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 5, 2024
Six seasons.
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) March 6, 2024
2019 Team Captain.
2021 Walter Payton Man of the Year Nominee.
Thanks for everything, Bake. pic.twitter.com/fF93kbwYWo
Miami has left the door open for Baker's return, per ESPN's Adam Schefter, but the defender posted what seemed to be a light-hearted goodbye to Dolphins fans on X after his release.
How I get fired on my day off thooo??!! Nah fr, Miami it's all love forever! pic.twitter.com/ei97E5rlbW
— Jerome Baker Jr. (@Lastname_Baker) March 6, 2024
Baker has been a starting linebacker for Miami since the Dolphins drafted him with the 73rd overall pick in the third round of the 2018 NFL draft. Across six seasons with the team, Baker has racked up 587 tackles – 382 of them solo – with 31 tackles for loss, 22.5 sacks and five interceptions. He has three seasons of more than 100 tackles to his credit.
The Ohio native saw action in 13 games in 2023. He made 78 tackles with two tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks and two interceptions. He missed four regular-season games with a knee injury and was sidelined for the Dolphins’ lone playoff game after undergoing wrist surgery.
Having turned 27 in December, he'll be a viable free-agent option for teams in need of linebacker help in 2024.
Baker started two seasons at Ohio State in 2016 and 2017, picking up 83 and 72 tackles, the latter number leading the Buckeyes that season. He added 17.5 tackles for loss, seven sacks, two interceptions, three fumble recoveries and a pick-six across those two campaigns.
