Dolphins rookie Jerome Baker set to start at linebacker
By Brian Miller
The Miami Dolphins are getting a lot of their 2018 rookie class as Jerome Baker is set to start the season at linebacker.
If you have been watching or following along through pre-season you will have noticed that Jerome Baker is all over the place. His practices and his three games have earned him a starting job.
According to head coach Adam Gase, Baker is the starting linebacker. Whether that lasts until the start of the season is unknown but judging by Gase’s responses to post-practice questions, he will be.
"(We saw LB Chase Allen, I think he might have had 27 snaps and LB Jerome Baker maybe 31, but it was pretty close. Is that job more up for grabs than it was maybe a week ago?) – “No.”(But it is up for grabs? Is LB Jerome Baker your starter or do you have a starter?) – “Baker’s our starter until we say otherwise.” – Adam Gase via MiamiDolphins.com"
It doesn’t get any clearer than that and any wiggle room may have been left on the floor. Baker has been impressive through camp and saw time with the starters almost immediately. Through three pre-season games Baker has made plays along the line and at the line of scrimmage. he has made plays behind the line as well.
More from Phin Phanatic
- Tua Tagovailoa practicing with teammates is everything a leader does
- 4 offensive tackles Miami Dolphins could draft at 51
- Miami Dolphins don’t need CB help but these 5 could be available at 51
- 4 players that could replace Wilkins if Miami Dolphins don’t re-sign him
- Miami Dolphins have a starting point with Wilkins after Simmons deal
The biggest question is can he step up and improve in the pass protection schemes? He may not have to right away. The Dolphins tend to play two linebackers and an extra safety in certain passing situations. This allows a player like Minkah Fitzpatrick to play closer to the line and cover a slot or tight-end.
The linebacker job needed to be won as Baker was competing with former first round pick Stephone Anthony. Anthony was acquired in a trade last year. Chase Allen has also been getting better and was pushing for more time but clearly Gase has made his decision.
Miami should see three of their draft prospects start this year. Baker, Fitzpatrick, and on offense, Mike Gesicki.