**Seahawks Trade Jerome Baker to Titans for Linebacker Ernest Jones IV**

In a surprising yet strategic move, the Seattle Seahawks have announced a trade deal involving inside linebacker Jerome Baker for Tennessee Titans' Ernest Jones IV. This exchange is part of the Seahawks' ongoing efforts to bolster their defensive lineup following the recent acquisition of defensive lineman Roy Robertson-Harris.

NFL insider Tom Pelissero broke the news, revealing that along with Baker, the Seahawks are sending a 2025 fourth-round pick to the Titans. For context, the Titans had acquired Jones earlier this year for a 2026 sixth-round pick, while parting with a 2025 fifth-round pick.

Baker's departure might be attributed to his compatibility issues with Mike Macdonald's system. Plagued by a hamstring injury during training camp and early regular-season games, Baker struggled with his run defense, which is a critical aspect of the Seahawks' strategy.

Ernest Jones IV, a third-round draft pick from South Carolina, started his NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021. Standing at 6'2 and weighing 233 pounds, Jones made a significant impact during the Rams' Super Bowl win against the Cincinnati Bengals with seven tackles, three QB hits, and a sack. His final season with the Rams was equally impressive, tallying 4.5 sacks, a career-high 145 tackles (including 14 tackles for loss), and six passes defensed.

Jones’ stint with the Titans saw him start five games, contributing 44 tackles and two passes defensed to a defense that ranks 11th in FTN Fantasy DVOA and 6th against the run.

Financially, Jones is a more economical acquisition for the Seahawks. With his rookie contract entering its final year, Jones' salary for 2024 is set at $3.116 million, with the Seahawks assuming less than $2 million of that sum due to payments already made by the Titans. Jones, a 24-year-old, will become a free agent in 2025, and the Seahawks are likely considering a contract extension.

As the Seahawks aim to enhance their defense, Jones is expected to be a valuable upgrade over Baker. Fans can anticipate Jones' potential debut this weekend against the Buffalo Bills, followed by an intriguing matchup against his former team, the Los Angeles Rams.