LAS VEGAS, NV — The Las Vegas Raiders have made a major move in Stage 1 of free agency, signing middle linebacker Jerome Baker to a three-season deal worth $12 million, with a hefty $18 million bonus. Baker, who most recently played for the Seattle Seahawks in Season 30, brings a wealth of talent and leadership to a Raiders defense that looks to solidify its standing in the competitive AFC West.

After finishing 8-8-1 and narrowly missing the playoffs last season, the Raiders, under head coach Max Farias, are building toward a brighter future. Farias, who famously guided the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl championship in Season 29, signed a long-term deal to lead the Raiders in Season 30. With Baker joining the squad, it’s clear Farias is shaping a defense capable of supporting his offensive-minded vision and championship aspirations.


Jerome Baker: A Proven Leader

At 28 years old, Jerome Baker has built a reputation as a dynamic and dependable presence in the middle of the defense. During Season 30 with the Seahawks, Baker started all 17 games and recorded 86 tackles, 11 passes defended, and 2 interceptions. His ability to cover the field, both in run support and pass coverage, makes him a critical addition to a Raiders defense that struggled to contain opposing offenses.

Baker’s leadership will also be invaluable as the Raiders seek to establish a defensive identity under Coach Farias. As a former award winner and one of the most respected linebackers in the league, his presence will bring stability to a unit looking to improve its efficiency and execution.

“Jerome Baker is the type of player who elevates everyone around him,” said Farias. “He’s a complete linebacker who can make plays all over the field, and we’re thrilled to have him in Silver and Black.”

A Perfect Fit for the Raiders’ Scheme

The Raiders’ defensive scheme emphasizes versatility and aggression, and Baker fits that mold perfectly. His athleticism and football IQ make him an ideal signal-caller for the defense, capable of adjusting to different offensive looks and leading a young core of defenders.

Las Vegas is banking on Baker’s ability to mentor the team’s emerging talent while continuing to deliver the high level of performance he’s known for. His knack for creating turnovers and defending the pass will be particularly valuable in a division loaded with explosive offenses like those of the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers.

Under Farias, who brought his championship-winning pedigree from San Francisco, Baker’s role as the anchor of the defense will be pivotal as the Raiders seek to reshape their identity.

Setting the Tone for Season 31

With Baker now in the fold, the Raiders are sending a clear message: they’re serious about competing for the AFC West crown in Season 31. Despite a respectable finish last season, the team knows there’s work to be done to close the gap with the division-leading Chiefs and secure a postseason berth.

Baker’s arrival is just the first step in what could be a transformative offseason for the Raiders. With Farias at the helm, the team is expected to continue adding pieces in free agency and the draft to shore up its roster.

“Adding Jerome is a statement of intent,” said Farias. “We’re building a team that can compete with anyone in the league, and Jerome is a big part of that.”

Eyes on the Playoffs

The Raiders’ playoff drought is weighing heavily on the franchise, and the addition of a player like Jerome Baker signals that the organization is ready to turn the corner. With his leadership and production, and with Max Farias leading the charge, the Raiders are well-positioned to build a defense that can stand toe-to-toe with the league’s best offenses.

For fans in Las Vegas, Baker’s signing provides plenty of reasons to be optimistic. As the team gears up for Season 31, it’s clear that the Raiders are committed to returning to their winning ways and re-establishing themselves as perennial contenders in the AFC.

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