Dolphins $37.5 Million Starter Identified as ‘Cut Candidate’

The number of open cap spaces for the Miami Dolphins has not changed as of February 17.The number is listed as negative $51.898 million on Over the Cap, ahead of the New Orleans Saints and ranking second worst in the NFL.

Given that the Dolphins’ new league year begins in March, it goes without saying that they must begin cutting salaries quickly.On February 14, uSTADIUM named linebacker Jerome Baker as one possible “cut candidate.”

By categorizing Baker as a post-June 1 release, Miami can save $11.053 million, according to Over the Cap. By terminating him and his $37.5 million deal before June 1, the front office may also clear $9.82 million and make changes.

In any case, along with veterans like cornerback Xavien Howard and edge rusher Emmanuel Ogbah, Dolphins general manager Chris Grier must at least be taking that significant number into consideration right now.

On January 22, Sports Illustrated beat reporter Omar Kelly assessed fans’ expectations regarding Baker’s future. Should Jerome Baker be released or reorganized? Kelly argued.

He wrote, “Baker’s in the same category as Howard.” “A valuable leader, the six-year starter will continue to be a key member of Miami’s defense in 2023.

Proceeding: “He is under contract with the Dolphins for $11.1 million; if they release him outright, they will receive $9.8 million back.” While Baker would likely prefer to test free agency for the first time before signing anything like that, it is possible that he will re-sign for a deal similar to fellow inside linebacker David Long Jr.’s two-year, $10 million contract. Baker finished 2023 with 72 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two interceptions.

Kelly added, “His wrist and knee injuries could complicate matters and make it difficult for him to pass a physical in March.

New Dolphins DC Anthony Weaver Didn’t Mention LB Jerome Baker During Introductory Press Conference

During his first media appearance on February 15, new Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver mentioned a number of Miami players he believes will play a significant role in his team in 2024.

These players were Long, defensive backs Jevon Holland and Jalen Ramsey, edge rushers Bradley Chubb and Jake Phillips, and defensive tackle Zach Sieler. Star defensive lineman Christian Wilkins, who is scheduled to enter free agency in March, was also discussed.

Weaver did not mention Baker, however he was obvious that he was probably missing some players.

Considering that the former third-round pick has been a Dolphins starter since 2018, that doesn’t necessarily imply much. Nevertheless, it’s always better when a new coach or coordinator recognizes you as a valuable asset going forward.

Could Dolphins Re-Sign LB Jerome Baker at Later Date?

Miami wants to free up some financial money early in the offseason, so it seems like a Baker cut might be inevitable. If the linebacker doesn’t sign with another team in free agency, they are still free to bring him back at a later time.

Neal Driscoll, a Dolphins podcaster, first proposed this concept on X, proposing to cut Baker before June 1 and release Howard after June 1. Afterwards, on June 1, Driscoll expressed his belief that a reunion between the Baker and Dolphins might be arranged at a significantly lower price.

“Holder’s release would free up $18.5 million in cap space for Miami, which would become available after June 1.” The podcaster speculated that they might use that to sign their draft class ($8 million), fire Jerome Baker ($5 million), and sign OL Isaiah Wynn ($3 million).

It’s a plausible notion, and we ought to soon learn how it all works out. The legal tampering period for free agency began on March 11 and the NFL’s new league year is scheduled to begin on March 13.

Read more news on https://sportupdates.co.uk/