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 have signed linebacker Jerome Baker, a former Ohio State standout, as part of their efforts to strengthen the roster during the ongoing NFL free agency. Baker, who played for the Buckeyes from 2015 to 2017 and was known for his impressive collegiate performance with 159 tackles, seven sacks, and two interceptions, was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. However, his professional journey has been marred by injuries, leading to a trade to the Tennessee Titans after a stint with the Seattle Seahawks.

In his latest season with the Titans, Baker showcased resilience, recording 61 tackles, two sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Returning to his hometown team, he aims to build on this momentum. The Browns are hopeful that Baker’s addition will bolster their defensive unit as they look to make significant strides in the 2025 season.

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.

The Cleveland Browns have strengthened their defense with the signing of linebacker Jerome Baker, a Cleveland native and former Ohio State star. With Baker's experience primarily with the Miami Dolphins, where he was a third-round pick in 2018, he brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to the Browns. After a stint with the Seahawks and a mid-season trade to the Titans, Baker's return to his hometown team comes at a crucial time as the Browns look to shore up their roster in free agency.

This addition marks the second signing within two days, alongside offensive guard Teven Jenkins, showcasing the Browns' active approach in addressing their depth needs. The exact terms of Baker's contract have yet to be revealed, but his presence is expected to bolster the linebacking corps significantly.