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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Jerome Baker (Ohio St.) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #73 by MIA

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Jerome Baker - 2018 NFL Draft

Position: Linebacker
College: Ohio State

Overview

Jerome Baker was a standout linebacker at Ohio State, known for his speed, athleticism, and playmaking ability. He played a key role in the Buckeyes' defense, showcasing his skills in both run defense and pass coverage.

Strengths

  • Speed and Agility: Baker possesses excellent lateral quickness and speed, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays sideline-to-sideline.
  • Coverage Skills: His ability to drop into coverage and match up against tight ends and running backs makes him a versatile defender.
  • Instincts: Displays good awareness on the field and is able to read plays effectively, often being in the right place at the right time.
  • Motor: Baker plays with a high energy level and relentless pursuit, consistently looking to make impactful plays.

Weaknesses

  • Size: At 6'1" and around 225 pounds, Baker may be considered undersized for a traditional linebacker role in the NFL.
  • Run Defense: While he is effective in coverage, there are concerns about his ability to shed blocks and defend against powerful running backs.
  • Experience: Limited experience as a full-time starter in college could raise questions about his ability to adapt to the NFL level.

Overall Projection

Jerome Baker was projected as a mid-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, with potential to be a valuable asset in a team’s linebacker rotation. His skill set made him a fit for teams looking for a linebacker who can contribute in coverage and provide speed on defense.

Ideal Fit

Baker's best fit would be in a defensive scheme that utilizes speed and agility over size, particularly in nickel and dime packages where his coverage skills would be an asset.