Pro Football Focus thinks it makes sense for the Pittsburgh Steelers to sign a former Oho State Buckeyes standout in NFL free agency that was recently released by the Miami Dolphins.
PFF suggested on Tuesday that signing free agent linebacker Jerome Baker is a move that would make sense for the Steelers this week.
From PFF: Baker will get caught on blocks at times or fail to enthusiastically fill a gap in the run game, but he's still one of the stronger coverage linebackers in the game with the long speed and effort to chase down ball-carriers. On the play he, unfortunately, injured his wrist, which required surgery and may have spurred his release, he ran across the field to the far pylon and was just a second late to making a potential stop right before the touchdown.
Baker, a former third round pick by the Dolphins in the 2018 NFL Draft, was released in January after spending the first six years of his career in Miami.
The former Ohio State linebacker has been durable during his career, missing just five games since entering the league in 2018.
Baker isn't a likely Pro Bowler. And he has his issues in the run game at times. But he's dependable, he's a great leader, and he's a former Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee. Baker seemingly fits in with what the Steelers typically look for in a defensive player.
The Steelers could do a lot worse than bringing Baker to Pittsburgh.
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