NFL star who’s earned $32m but was left unemployed handed career lifeline with Seattle Seahawks in free agency

LESS than two weeks after hitting free agency, Jerome Baker has found a new home.

Following six seasons with the Miami Dolphins, the 27-year-old was released on March 5.

Jerome Baker’s release by the Miami Dolphins freed up $9.8 million in cap spaceCredit: Getty

Baker was a third-round draft pick out of Ohio State by Miami in 2018Credit: Getty
Baker’s release came after he and the Dolphins could not find common ground on a restructured deal, as Sports Illustrated.

As such, in leaving Miami the move has cleared $9.8 million in cap space for the cash-strapped Dolphins, who also let go of other defensive stars such as Xavien Howard, Emmanuel Ogbah, and Keion Crossen.

Then just three days after the free agency period officially began on March 13, it was announced that the Seattle Seahawks had signed Baker.

He reportedly put pen to paper on a one-year deal worth $7 million, as per his agents, via ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Baker and fellow new signee Tyrell Dodson will look to fill the voids left by Bobby Wagner and Jordyn Brooks.

Wagner signed a one-year deal with the Washington Commanders which includes $6 million guaranteed and could rise to up to $8.5 million in total, as per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

As for Brooks, he has made his way to Miami where he signed a three-year deal worth over $26 million.

Baker’s move to Seattle follows a hugely successful career in Florida.

Selected in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, Baker played every game his rookie year, quickly nailing down a starting spot.

During his six seasons in Miami, Baker racked up 587 tackles, 22.5 sacks, 21 defended passes, and five interceptions.

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Along the way, he’s earned over $32 million.

Unfortunately, 2023 was largely a year to forget for Baker.

A knee injury sustained in Week 13 against the Commanders ultimately landed him on injured reserve, forcing him to miss the next four games.

Then upon his return against the Buffalo Bills in Week 18, Baker suffered a season-ending wrist injury that required surgery.