The Miami Dolphins released starting linebacker Jerome Baker on Tuesday with a “failed physical” designation.
Baker sustained a wrist injury in the regular-season finale against the Buffalo Bills and underwent surgery, missing Miami’s wild-card playoff loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
He was cut after failing to come to terms on a restructured contract, ESPN reported.
The Dolphins “left the door open” for Baker to return if he chooses, per the report. He was set to make $10.8 million in 2024 and his release will clear $9.8 million in salary-cap space.
Baker, 27, joined Miami as a 2018 third-round draft pick and started 82 of his 94 games with the team during the past six seasons.
He recorded 78 tackles and two interceptions in 2023, including a pick-6 against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 7. Baker also missed four weeks late in the season due to a knee injury.
Baker’s career totals include 587 tackles, 22.5 sacks, six forced fumbles and five interceptions.
The Dolphins made two other moves on Tuesday, signing defensive tackle Isaiah Mack and releasing defensive back Keion Crossen. Mack, 27, has 25 games of NFL experience spread among the Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens. Crossen appeared in all 16 games for Miami in 2022, seeing the majority of his action on special teams.
