The Miami Dolphins’ ongoing struggle with their salary cap has led to the departure of another valuable player who rose through their ranks and served as a key contributor for several years.
As per a source within the league, the Dolphins have decided to release Jerome Baker, an inside linebacker who has been a consistent starter for six seasons and has topped the team’s tackle charts on multiple occasions.
This move aims to alleviate the financial pressure on the Dolphins, allowing them to free up $31 million in cap space to meet the league’s requirements by the March 13 deadline. Alongside Baker, the team has also parted ways with Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard (with a designated June 1 release), defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah, and cornerback Keion Crossen.
Baker’s release specifically contributes an extra $9.8 million to the cap space, while Crossen’s departure saves an additional $3 million, bringing the Dolphins closer to the cap compliance mark by approximately $18.2 million.
To further address their financial challenges, the Dolphins may resort to additional cuts, potential contract extensions, or restructuring deals as they approach the 2024 offseason. However, these measures may not be sufficient to cover the costs of retaining their own free agents or pursuing seasoned players to bolster their roster.
Baker’s release was anticipated, with discussions about restructuring his contract having taken place between his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, and the Dolphins during the NFL Combine. Despite the possibility of a return to Miami, Baker is expected to explore his options in the free agent market for the first time in his career.
The offseason presents opportunities for released players to secure new contracts, particularly with 13 teams boasting over $40 million in cap space. Baker’s departure leaves a void in the Dolphins’ linebacker corps, prompting speculation about potential replacements, including the exploration of veteran options unless internal candidates like Duke Riley step up to fill the role.
The Dolphins’ linebacker depth faces scrutiny, with concerns raised about the readiness of younger players like Channing Tindall to step into defensive roles. With a new defensive coordinator in Anthony Weaver, preferences for different linebacker styles may influence the team’s decisions in pursuing free agents, including those with ties to Weaver’s past experiences.
Several notable free agent inside linebackers, including Patrick Queen, Devin White, Lavonte David, Bobby Wagner, Tyrel Dodson, and Shaq Leonard, could be potential targets for the Dolphins as they navigate their roster adjustments and pursue a competitive edge in the upcoming season.
