Seahawks LB Jerome Baker returns to practice ahead of Week 1

Seattle Seahawks linebacker Jerome Baker returned to practice on Monday. Baker was seen participating during warmups, which is the only portion of practice beat reports are allowed to watch nowadays. The Seahawks won’t release their first injury report until Wednesday, but it’s an encouraging sign for his availability for Sunday’s Week 1 matchup versus the Denver Broncos.

Baker did not play a single snap throughout the preseason and has been a limited participant due to two separate injuries suffered during the summer. The former Ohio State standout was first sidelined during spring workouts after undergoing offseason surgery for a wrist injury. Upon his return from that setback, Baker dealt with a hamstring issue that forced the Seahawks to take a cautious approach during the exhibition.

The Seahawks signed Baker to a one-year contract worth up to $7 million earlier this offseason following his release from the Miami Dolphins. Baker is part of a new-look linebacker core as a projected starter opposite fellow free-agent addition Tyrel Dodson. Together, they’ll try and replace the production lost from Bobby Wagner.

Off-ball linebacker is an important position in this Seahawks defense. Head coach Mike Macdonald coached Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen with the Baltimore Ravens last season, two tone-setting defenders that spearheaded Macdonald’s league-leading defense.

It’s unfortunate that Baker wasn’t healthy throughout training camp and the preseason. He missed crucial reps that were key to acclimating to Macdonald’s defense. Ultimately, Seattle took the smart approach to preserve the health of a starting defender. Their caution appears primed to be rewarded with Baker playing against the Broncos this weekend.

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This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Seahawks LB Jerome Baker returns to practice ahead of Week 1