Chris Baker and the Washington Redskins may have more time together. With his contract set to expire, there was concern that the productive defensive lineman would search for greener pastures in free agency beginning this week. His old team doesn't plan on letting him go without a fight, though, as they plan to extend an offer to Baker at the start of free agency.
Free agency offer
According to Mike Jones of The Washington Post, the team is expected to offer Baker a new contract this week. The report also claimed the Redskins have had productive conversations with one of their top defensive free agents.
The team is facing free agency losses throughout the defensive line, in addition to the team's top two wide receivers, so retaining some of their own free agents would be a smart way to start the offseason.
The 29-year-old is expected to draw significant interest on the open market. Interested teams with a need for him include the Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with other interested suitors remaining anonymous at the moment. The need for the Redskins may be the greatest, however, which is why they will look to bring Baker back to the team.
Productive lineman
Baker emerged as a productive defensive lineman back in 2015, when he recorded 53 tackles, six sacks, and three forced fumbles.
The defensive end wasn't as dominant in 2016, but still had a decent year with 47 tackles, 3.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. The Redskins have struggled to find talented defensive linemen over the past several years, giving deals to busts such as Terrance Knighton.
Washington has a pivotal offseason coming up for them. They have already applied the franchise tag to quarterback Kirk Cousins for a second time, though trade rumors surrounding the San Francisco 49ers continue to persist.
They also stand to lose two of their best offensive threats in DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon. Defensive line may not be as flashy as those other positions, but it still matters; bringing back Baker would go a long way toward accomplishing a priority this spring.
