Report: 'Good Chance' Steelers Bring In Recently Released Free Agent ILB Jerome Baker

Baker was drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft by Miami and has spent the entirety of his career there. He has 82 games of starting experience while playing in 94 altogether. He had a career-high two interceptions and added a defensive touchdown. It doesn't hurt that he played with Roberts from 2020 to 2022. The duo could be the two starters if Holcomb isn't quite ready once September rolls around.

Pittsburgh, including Tomlin, was in attendance at Ohio State University's Pro Day back in 2018, where Baker attended college. He was selected 73rd overall, just a few picks before the Steelers ending up selecting Mason Rudolph out of Oklahoma State. The main concern that may come into play with Baker is the fact that he is still recovering from a wrist injury that ultimately led to the end of his days in Miami (potentially).

According to ESPN's Marcel Louis-Jacques, the linebacker was released due to a failed physical. This situation is a bit reminiscent of the 2022 offseason. Although not the exact same situation, Pittsburgh signed Larry Ogunjobi after he signed a three-year deal with the Chicago Bears, but did not end up passing his physical. Baker was entering his final season of a three-year, $37.5 million contract, but won't end up playing the final season of that deal.

Baker is still just 27 years old and, depending on his health, could be more than just a one-year rental player. The 2024 draft class is not incredibly deep, so Khan and co. dipping into free agency is well within the realm of possibility. Baker checks the boxes and won't come at the same cost as a guy like Queen. His wrist surgery from January is a small hurdle to jump over, but won't stop Pittsburgh from going after him if they see him as a good fit (according to Kaboly, they already might).

Miami didn't want to let a failed physical lead to Baker's time with the Dolphins' organization coming to an end. Adam Schefter posted on social media that a contract restructure was discussed, but not agreed upon. The door is open for him to go back if he so chooses, but fans can expect him to test the waters in free agency.

Pittsburgh has a lot of areas to focus on in the draft, as they like to draft and develop talent, but not everything can be addressed perfectly with just seven selections. Free agency will be critical and the inside linebacker position could be a great place to start.

Steelers' Khan Has His Work Cut Out For Him In 2024 Free Agency

Pittsburgh hasn't been known to be big spenders throughout the franchise's history. Khan has showed some aggression since he was promoted. With the league generously expanding the salary cap and still plenty of ways for the Steelers to open up space, a few solid signings in free agency might be a good starting point heading into the draft. Baker could be one of Pittsburgh's first targets.