- Ohio State junior outside linebacker Jerome Baker enters the 2017 season as one of PFF’s top linebacker prospects and a Day 2 projection for the 2018 NFL Draft.
- Baker, who has only one full season of experience, led all returning 4-3 outside linebackers from the Power 5 with a combined tackling efficiency rating of 13.0 last season. He was also a fierce pass-rusher, accumulating four sacks, three QB hits and nine hurries in only 48 rush attempts.
- In coverage, he gave up 0.50 yards per cover snap, which ranks No. 34 in this year’s linebacker class. Quarterbacks targeting a receiver in his coverage averaged a passer rating of 79.8.
- While Baker stood out in several different areas, he has room for improvement when it comes to shedding blocks and recognizing screens and outside runs.
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