The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, a pivotal moment for their recovery from a disappointing 3-14 season. Owner Jimmy Haslam and coach Kevin Stefanski emphasize the need for 'really good football players' to enhance their roster. Among the areas of focus are linebackers, a position where the team currently has several players, including Jerome Baker and Devin Bush, but faces uncertainty with Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah due to injury.

The Browns hold significant draft capital with multiple picks, including the second overall in the first round. However, linebacker prospects appear limited. The team may not prioritize a linebacker on Day 1 but could explore Day 3 options like Eugene Asante or Teddye Buchanan. Despite the pressing needs in other positions, the linebacker class's depth may offer the Browns valuable prospects to consider during the draft.

The Cleveland Browns have secured linebacker Winston Reid by signing him to an exclusive rights free agent tender worth $960K for the 2025 season. Reid, an undrafted free agent from Weber State, played primarily on special teams during his rookie season, seeing action on 87% of special teams snaps. His defensive contributions were limited, with five tackles in a game against the Ravens marking his standout performance.

In the lead-up to the 2025 NFL draft, the Browns have bolstered their linebacker corps by retaining Reid and Devin Bush while also signing Jerome Baker. With Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah's future uncertain, Reid will compete for a roster spot as the team looks to solidify its depth at the position.

The Cleveland Browns have signed linebacker Jerome Baker to a one-year deal as part of their free agency efforts, bringing in a local player to bolster their struggling defense. This acquisition adds necessary veteran leadership to a linebacker room that has faced challenges, especially with Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah's injury history. Baker is expected to fill in effectively in case of further injuries, providing critical depth and experience.

Although Baker’s production recently declined, he remains a stout run defender. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 235 pounds, he has transitioned into a traditional middle linebacker role as he approaches his eighth season in the NFL. His experience will be crucial for mentoring younger players in the linebacker group, although he may not be a long-term solution. The Browns' management is praised for securing Baker at a reasonable salary, likely near $3 million, which will help maintain roster flexibility as they prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft.

The Cleveland Browns are set to bolster their linebacker corps with the signing of Jerome Baker, who returns to his hometown after a stint with the Tennessee Titans. Baker, originally drafted by the Miami Dolphins, struggled to find his rhythm in Nashville after an earlier trade from the Seattle Seahawks. In his last season, he recorded 61 tackles, two sacks, and forced a fumble across 566 defensive snaps.

Baker's addition comes as the Browns look to recover from the mid-season loss of Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, who suffered a serious neck injury. With 648 career tackles and a wealth of experience, Baker aims to provide the Browns with much-needed depth and leadership in a critical defensive role.

As the Browns reshape their linebacker unit, Baker's familiarity with the team culture and local fan base could bring significant advantages as they look to improve their defensive performance in the upcoming season.