The Miami Dolphins made a significant move on Tuesday by releasing linebacker Jerome Baker, a decision that opens up approximately $9.8 million in salary cap space.
Baker, a third-round draft pick for the Dolphins in 2018, was in the final year of a three-year extension but faced setbacks due to injuries last season.
An MCL sprain sidelined Baker for four games toward the end of the previous season. Additionally, he underwent wrist surgery following Miami’s regular-season finale, causing him to miss the Dolphins’ playoff loss to Kansas City.
During his time with Miami, Baker started in 82 games, registering 22 1/2 sacks, five interceptions, and six forced fumbles.
General manager Chris Grier expressed the team’s interest in retaining Baker during the NFL combine last week, stating, “I think the big thing for us was to have the new defensive staff come in, spend time watching the team, watching the defense as a staff together.”
However, in another potential loss for the Dolphins’ defense, defensive tackle Christian Wilkins is headed for free agency after seeking a contract extension. Miami opted not to place the franchise tag on Wilkins.
The release of Baker resulted in a dead cap hit of approximately $4.9 million for the Dolphins. Cutting cornerback Keion Crossen creates approximately $2.9 million in cap space.
To bolster their defense, the Dolphins also signed defensive tackle Isaiah Mack on Tuesday.
Miami faces uncertainty at linebacker with star pass rushers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb recovering from season-ending injuries. Phillips tore his Achilles tendon in November, while Chubb suffered a torn ACL in his right knee.
Furthermore, Grier confirmed during the combine that the Dolphins are expected to part ways with veteran cornerback Xavien Howard, the team’s longest-tenured player, releasing him at the start of the new league year on March 13.
