News: Seattle released veteran TE Chris Baker and QB Nate Davis on Thursday. Baker played just one season with the Seahawks but appeared in all 16 regular-season games. He started 13 times, but was placed on injured reserve Jan. 4 after fracturing a bone in his hip against St. Louis. He finished the year with nine catches for 116 yards and one touchdown.
Analysis: Baker also missed Seattle's two playoff games, but was unlikely to have played a factor anyway. The 10-year veteran has not hauled in more than 15 catches in his last two seasons and clearly his best, albeit marginal, playing days are over. He should not be considered a Fantasy option in any format during the 2011 season.
News: The Seattle Seahawks have placed tight end Chris Baker and guard Chester Pitts on season-ending injured reserve. Seattle made the moves on Tuesday but has not filled the spots on the active roster ahead of Saturday's NFC playoff game against New Orleans. Baker fractured a bone in his hip and Pitts suffered a serious concussion in last Sunday's 16-6 win over St. Louis.
Analysis: Baker really hasn't been a relevant Fantasy option for years and we doubt that changes heading into 2011. You probably won't have to worry about him in Fantasy drafts next summer.
News: Seattle TE Chris Baker came down with one catch for 15 yards in the Week 14 blowout loss in San Francisco. He was targeted twice by QB Matt Hasselbeck.
Analysis: Baker has a touchdown this season and can sometimes get a couple catches. Still, he is no shoe-in to make a catch in any game and that will continue heading into Week 15 against Atlanta. Leave him off Fantasy rosters.
News: Seahawks TE Chris Baker did something in Week 12 against the Chiefs that he hadn't done all season long -- find the end zone. He caught a 13-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter for his only reception of the game.
Analysis: Baker scored his 15th career touchdown on Sunday but he has been little-used so far this season. He now has seven catches on the year for 90 yards. With Carolina up next on the schedule, continue to view Baker as a low-end Fantasy option for Week 13.
News: Seahawks TE Chris Baker had his best game of the year in Week 10 against the Cardinals. He caught a 44-yard pass from QB Matt Hasselbeck and also had a 7-yarder to finish with two grabs for 51 yards in the 36-18 win.
Analysis: Baker's big grab on Sunday surpassed his production from the first eight games this season but Fantasy owners should not count on it on a week-to-week basis. He has minimal Fantasy value as the No. 2 TE for the Seahawks and should continue to be ignored in all but the deepest of Fantasy leagues heading into Week 11 against the Saints.
News: Seahawks TE Chris Baker had just one reception for 7 yards in the Week 9 against the Giants. He was targeted twice in the 41-7 loss.
Analysis: Baker is the blocking TE for the Seahawks. Unless his role with the team changes he can be ignored in all Fantasy formats at this point.
News: The Seahawks have finally stepped into the free agent marketplace, agreeing to terms with TE Chris Baker. A team spokesman confirmed a deal had been agreed to on Saturday, although the team did not release terms of the contract. Baker spent last season as a backup in New England, but previously was a starter for the New York Jets. Last season with the Patriots, Baker had just 14 catches and two touchdowns. His best season came in 2007 with the Jets when he caught 41 passes for 409 yards and three scores. He spent his first seven years in the league with the Jets. Baker, 30, will be a backup in Seattle to John Carlson.
Analysis: Baker has minimal Fantasy value as the No. 2 TE for the Seahawks. Ignore him in all leagues on Draft Day.
News: The Patriots have released tight end Chris Baker, who had 14 receptions and two touchdowns last season. New England signed the eight-year NFL veteran as a free agent in March 2009. He played in all 16 games last season, with seven starts. He had 142 receiving yards.
Analysis: Baker has 159 career receptions for 1,746 yards and 14 touchdowns. He's more of a blocking tight end than anything else -- he's not worth owning in Fantasy play.
News: Patriots TE Chris Baker had one catch for 13 yards Sunday at Houston.
Analysis: Baker is a low-end Fantasy option and should not be used in any formats. Benjamin Watson remains the No. 1 TE for the Patriots heading into the playoffs.
News: New England TE Chris Baker had two catches for 32 yards and a touchdown Sunday against Jacksonville.
Analysis: Baker is a low-end Fantasy TE despite scoring the touchdown. He is the No. 2 TE behind Benjamin Watson, but the two continue to split production most weeks. Don't plan on starting Baker in Week 17 at Houston.
News: Patriots WR Julian Edelman, RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, TE Chris Baker and QB Brian Hoyer all dressed for New England's Week 15 win at Buffalo but failed to record an offensive stat.
Analysis: None of these players have any real Fantasy value at this time, so continue to ignore them in Week 16 vs. Jacksonville.
News: Patriots TE Chris Baker made a 6-yard catch in a Week 13 loss at Miami.
Analysis: Baker gets a catch here and there for the Pats but has no Fantasy value heading into Week 14 vs. Carolina.
News: New England WR Isaiah Stanback got the start in the Monday night loss at New Orleans in Week 12. He failed to stat. Also failing to stat in the game was tight end Chris Baker.
Analysis: Stanback had been more involved in the offense of late for New England but because of the possibility of games such as this one, he's just a low-end Fantasy option barely worth owning in any format. The same goes for Baker. New England is at Miami in Week 13.
News: Patriots WR Matt Slater, TE Chris Baker and QB Brian Hoyer all dressed but failed to record an offensive stat in Week 11 against the Jets.
Analysis: Baker is about the only player on this list that will usually appear on the stat sheet. Still, he doesn't produce enough to start regularly in Fantasy. It's probably best to keep these players out of active Fantasy lineups for Week 12. Next up for the Patriots is the Saints.
News: Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder), TE Chris Baker (shoulder), Julian Edelman (forearm) and TE Benjamin Watson (knee) have all been ruled active for Week 11 vs. N.Y. Jets.
Analysis: Baker and Edelman were questionable for the game, but Brady and Watson were probable. They are the two biggest names on the list. Brady is clearly a must-start Fantasy option while Watson is more of a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE. Baker and Edelman are desperation starts in deeper formats.
News: Patriots TE Chris Baker caught two passes for 13 yards at Indy in Week 10.
Analysis: Baker doesn't produce enough stats to warrant Fantasy use. Keep him off rosters.
News: Patriots WR Brandon Tate, WR Matt Slater, TE Chris Baker and QB Brian Hoyer all dressed for New England's Week 9 win over the Dolphins.
Analysis: All of these guys are backups and have no Fantasy value at this time. Ignore them in Week 10 at Indianapolis.
News: Patriots TE Chris Baker caught three passes for 26 yards in a Week 8 rout of the Buccaneers in London.
Analysis: Baker chips in with a catch here and there for the Patriots but has no Fantasy value. The Patriots are off in Week 8.
News: Patriots TE Chris Baker hauled in one catch for 2 yards during a Week 6 win against the Titans. It was his first catch in three games.
Analysis: Despite the fact Ben Watson (head) was active, Baker had more catches than the Patriots' top tight end. Still, Baker hasn't had more than two catches in a game this season and hardly factors into the game plan. He has little to no Fantasy value heading into Week 7 against the Bucs.
News: Patriots TE Benjamin Watson (head) is active and expected to start Week 6 vs. Tennessee. Watson was limited in practice all week after suffering a head injury in Week 5 against Denver. Chris Baker would have started had Watson not been ready.
Analysis: Watson has started to surge back up the Fantasy tight end rankings thanks to becoming a relevant red-zone target again. However, he is still more of a No. 2 Fantasy tight end since his numbers are a bit inconsistent. Baker might see a few extra reps in Week 6, but he is not worth playing in Fantasy.
News: New England TE Benjamin Watson (head) was able to practice in a limited fashion on Thursday as the team prepares for its Week 6 game against the Titans. He is considered questionable for the game. KTVU.com reports that Watson could lose some snaps to Chris Baker Week 6 if Watson isn't ready to go.
Analysis: Watson left week 5 at Denver with the head injury and was not able to return. Watson's abilities as a pass catcher have diminished and he can only be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE at this point. Monitor Watson's status leading up to Week 6 as he does have a decent matchup against a porous Titans pass defense. Baker is not a recommended option in any format unless Watson is ruled out for the game.
News: Patriots TE Chris Baker, WR Matt Slater, RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, TE Michael Matthews, WR Sam Aiken and QB Brian Hoyer all dressed but failed to record an offensive stat Week 5 against the Broncos.
Analysis: Baker and Green-Ellis will occasional post a decent stat line, but they don't do it enough on a consistent basis to matter much in Fantasy. Most of these players have little to no Fantasy value. Keep them reserved heading into Week 6 against the Titans.
News: Patriots TE Michael Matthews, WR Matt Slater, TE Chris Baker and QB Brian Hoyer all dressed for New England's Week 4 win vs. the Ravens but failed to produce an offensive stat.
Analysis: None of these players should be used in the majority of Fantasy leagues. Ignore all of them in Week 4 at Denver.
News: In the Patriots' Week 3 win over the Falcons, TE Chris Baker caught two passes, one of which a 36-yard touchdown haul to expand the Patriots' lead in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Fantasy owners might enlist in Baker following his Week 3 game, but he's hardly a reliable Fantasy tight end because his production is inconsistent. Definitely pass on him when he and the Pats host the Ravens in Week 4.
News: Patriots TE Chris Baker made it two straight weeks with one catch as New England fell to the Jets in Week 2. Baker's grab went for all of one yard.
Analysis: Baker might catch a touchdown here or there this season, but he's really only a backup to Benjamin Watson and shouldn't be started in any Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: New England TE Chris Baker caught the first pass to a tight end in Monday's Week 1 game against the Bills. It was the only pass he would catch as Benjamin Watson finished with two touchdowns. Baker went for 7 yards.
Analysis: Baker could end up a solid end zone target for the Patriots this season but ultimately that job went to Watson in Week 1. Until Baker sees more balls his way, he's just a low-end Fantasy TE option heading into Week 2 at the Jets, which did a good job stopping Houston's offense in Week 1.
News: Patriots coach Bill Belichick likes what TE Chris Baker has brought to the team this year and thinks he can be a quality asset. "Chris has been a very versatile guy for us," Belichick said. "I've really been impressed with really all aspects of Chris’ game since he came here. He's a smart kid. He works hard. He's tough. He's got good position versatility; he can play on the line, go in motion. ... He can pass protect. He can run block. He can do a lot of different things for us. He can really fill a lot of roles and play a lot of different spots or change his assignment, what we're asking him to do in different formations and things like that. That gives you a lot of versatility. I think he's really given us a good dimension at that position that is very helpful for our offense because one of the things about our offense is that we do some different things anyway. So to have a versatile player, particularly at that position, at the tight end position, just makes things flow a little bit smoother."
Analysis: Baker could be a good red-zone target for QB Tom Brady, but he's not worth using most weeks. Keep Baker reserved for Week 1 against Buffalo.
News: Patriots coach Bill Belichick said Sunday he has been impressed with TE Chris Baker, who caught two touchdowns in the Pats preseason opener against the Eagles. Belichick liked how Baker adjusted his routes based on single or zone coverage.
Analysis: Baker is competing for playing time in a crowded spot at TE for the Patriots with Benjamin Watson and Alex Smith. If Baker continues to play like this for the rest of the preseason then he could win the starting job, which would make him a decent No. 2 Fantasy TE and potential sleeper. Keep an eye on what happens with Baker, Watson and Smith, but Baker might have the edge after his preseason debut.
News:Chris Baker caught two touchdown passes from Tom Brady, who was playing in his first game since tearing ligaments in his left knee in Week 1 last year, leading the New England Patriots to a 27-25 victory over the Eagles in the preseason opener Thursday night. Brady found Baker open for a 4-yard TD strike for the opening score at 7:58. Brady then sent the Patriots into halftime with a 21-6 lead when he connected with Baker on a 9-yard scoring play at 2:12 of the second quarter. "I thought he was sharp. He went out there and moved us up and down the field and put some points on the board," Baker said.
Analysis: Talk about a great debut. Baker is in his first season with the Patriots after spending the first seven years of his career with the Jets. He only caught 21 passes for 194 yards in 2008 as part of a crowded situation at tight end. He also didn't have a touchdown for the first time in five seasons. Baker is now battling Ben Watson for time at tight end in New England. Definitely developing rapport with Brady will go a long way, but Baker is still best viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy TE Draft Day.
News: The Boston Globe reports that in 2008 Patriots TE Benjamin Watson (87 percent) played more snaps than any Patriots skill position player other than Randy Moss and Wes Welker. This year, Watson will compete with Chris Baker, Alex Smith, David Thomas and Tyson DeVree for playing time. Baker and Smith, both brought in this offseason, pose the biggest threats to Watson. Baker figures to contribute more as a blocker and on underneath routes, while Smith and Thomas project more as players who could line up in the backfield and serve in a fullback-type role now that Heath Evans is gone. Watson has been the primary TE in three-receiver packages, and because he has the best speed of the group, it's likely he will continue to fill that role.
Analysis: Watson has the best Fantasy value of this group, but none of them are going to be much of a factor. At best, consider using Watson as a bye-week replacement, and he should be viewed as a No. 2 option coming into the year. Ignore all the rest on Draft Day.
News: The Boston Globe reports new Patriots TE Alex Smith is trying to fit in with his new team. So far, he has adjusted to the new offense after coming from Tampa Bay. "It's different, but at the same time there are a lot of similarities," said Smith, who had 21 catches for 250 yards and three touchdowns in 14 games last season. Smith is part of a crowded position, joining Benjamin Watson, David Thomas, Chris Baker and Tyson DeVree. "We have competition at every spot, and I think it just brings the best out of everybody," said Smith. "You never want to get scared of competition, but hope that it steps your game up and makes everybody else better as well."
Analysis: We still expect Watson to be the starting TE for the Patriots, but Thomas, Baker and Smith will all factor into the mix. Because of the number of bodies at the position, ignore all the Patriots TEs on Draft Day. Once one emerges during the season then add that player off the waiver wire.
News: The Patriots acquired TE Alex Smith from the Buccaneers for a draft pick in 2010. Smith is a versatile tight end who has made a small living catching passes in the red zone for much of his career. With Benjamin Watson and Chris Baker already on the New England roster, the depth chart has become crowded in New England.
Analysis: As the result of this trade, no Patriots TE can be trusted as anything more than a one-week replacement off the waiver wire. All three will total decent stats, but individually won't help Fantasy owners on a weekly basis.
News: NFL Network reports that the Patriots have signed Chris Baker, formerly of the Jets.
Analysis: Baker caught 21 passes for 194 yards and no touchdowns last season, but had a career-high 41 receptions in 2007 and is a reliable third-down target. That's where the Patriots will likely use him in 2009, which means we won't see him as a regular target in the offense. That said, don't count on Baker to be anything more than a low-end waiver-wire option in deeper leagues this summer.
News: The New York Jets released veteran tight end Chris Baker on Friday. Baker, who signed a three-year contract extension last September, had 145 career receptions for 1,505 yards and 12 touchdowns since being drafted by New York in the third round in 2002. The 29-year-old tight end was due $9 million in guarantees over the next three seasons if he remained on the roster on March 5. There's a chance the Jets could re-sign him for less money in free agency.
Analysis: He caught 21 passes for 194 yards and no touchdowns last season, but had a career-high 41 receptions in 2007 and is a reliable third-down receiver. Baker lost some playing time to rookie Dustin Keller, who became a favorite target of Brett Favre with 48 catches for 535 yards and three touchdowns. If Baker does return to the Jets he would have minimal Fantasy value. You'd rather see Baker go elsewhere to improve his chances of helping your Fantasy league.
News: According to a report, the Jets have released TE Chris Baker on Friday. The Jets decided to cut Baker rather than paying him the $9 million roster bonus due March 5, reports the NFL Network. The Jets would like to re-sign Baker, and Baker would welcome the idea of returning to the team. But before he does, he will test the market, see what other teams are offering and then make his decision.
Analysis: Baker's Fantasy value suffered last year with the emergence of rookie TE Dustin Keller. If Baker does return to the Jets he would have minimal Fantasy value. You'd rather see Baker go elsewhere to improve his chances of helping your Fantasy league.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had one catch Week 16 for 12 yards. It's the fourth straight week that Baker has made exactly one catch.
Analysis: Baker is the secondary tight end in New York with the emergence of Dustin Keller. He has little to no Fantasy value and should be ignored.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker made one grab for 19 yards in Week 15's win over the Bills. Baker has exactly one catch in each of his last three games.
Analysis: Baker has taken a backseat in New York due to the emergence of rookie TE Dustin Keller. He's not worth owning or using in Fantasy as the Jets head to Seattle in Week 16.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker made one reception for 15 yards Week 14 at San Francisco. He now has a total of two receptions over his last three games.
Analysis: Baker is not a regular target in the offense and has little Fantasy appeal. Leave him on waivers for Week 15 against the Bills.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker made one catch for seven yards in Week 13 against Denver.
Analysis: Baker is not a regular target in the offense and should not be considered a viable Fantasy option. Leave him on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker went without a catch in Week 12's win over the previously unbeaten Titans.
Analysis: Baker caught three passes in Week 11 but went without a catch in Week 10. Dustin Keller, a rookie, has emerged as New York's top tight end option. Baker is not worthy of being owned in Fantasy and is useless in Week 13 against Denver.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught three passes on Thursday night against the Patriots in Week 11 for a total of 11 yards.
Analysis: Baker caught three passes in Week 11 but went without a catch in Week 10. Dustin Keller, a rookie, has emerged as New York's top tight end option. Baker is not worthy of being owned in Fantasy and is useless in Week 12 at Tennessee.
News: The following Jets were not helpful in Week 10's 47-3 win over the Rams since they played but did not record any stats for Fantasy purposes: FB Tony Richardson, WR Wallace Wright, WR Chansi Stuckey, TE James Dearth and TE Chris Baker.
Analysis: Richardson is an impressive veteran blocker and will help pave the way for RBs like Thomas Jones and Leon Washington, but he's not going to produce a lot of stats. Keep him off of Fantasy rosters heading into Week 11 at New England. The same goes for the rest of the players on the list mentioned above.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker is probable for Week 10 with a hip injury.
Analysis: Baker doesn't post enough stats to warrant Fantasy use. Look elsewhere for Fantasy help at tight end.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker started in Week 9's win over the Bills in Buffalo but did not record any stats in the game.
Analysis: QB Brett Favre hasn't thrown to his tight ends so much in New York, making Baker a low-end Fantasy option at best. Don't bother with him off the waiver wire in Week 10 against the Rams.
News: Tight end Bubba Franks (hip) didn't practice all week and was listed as doubtful, while linebacker Cody Spencer (shoulder) and tight end Chris Baker (hip) were questionable. The Jets play at the Bills in Week 9.
Analysis: None of these players were or are expected to produce significant stats on a regular basis to begin with. Keep them off of Fantasy rosters until further notice.
News: The following players saw action in Week 8's win over Kansas City but did not record any stats for the Jets: FB Tony Richardson, WR Wallace Wright, TE James Dearth and TE Chris Baker. Baker left the game with a hip injury. Backup QB Kellen Clemens did not play in the game but was active.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers for Week 9 at Buffalo.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker made a season-high five receptions for 42 yards Week 7 at Oakland. His previous season high was 34 yards in Week 1.
Analysis: QB Brett Favre hasn't thrown to his tight ends so much in New York, making Baker a low-end Fantasy option at best. Don't bother with him off the waiver wire unless you need a bye-week replacement Week 8 against the Chiefs.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had one catch for six yards during a Week 6 win against the Bengals. He had just two passes thrown his way by QB Brett Favre and has seven receptions on the season in six games.
Analysis: Baker continues to play a marginal role in the Jets' offense and continues to lose snaps to Dustin Keller and Bubba Franks. Baker doesn't have great numbers and is not a recommended Fantasy option at this time. The Jets play the Raiders Week 7.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught the only pass thrown his way for nine yards during a Week 4 win against the Cardinals. He now has six catches for 69 yards in four games.
Analysis: It's still baffling to see the Jets sign Baker long term despite having Dustin Keller, who caught his second TD Week 4, and Bubba Franks on the roster. Baker doesn't have great numbers and is not a recommended Fantasy option at this time. The Jets don't play again until Week 6 against the Bengals.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught three passes for 26 yards during a Week 3 loss to the Chargers. His longest catch went nine yards and he was targeted just four times in the game.
Analysis: The Jets didn't get Baker involved in the passing game until late in the third quarter. They opted to trust rookie TE Dustin Keller early on and that could be a sign the times are changing in New York. Baker just landed a fat extension from the Jets after a 41-catch season, but it doesn't make sense why the Jets would give him a lucrative deal with Keller and Bubba Franks on the roster. Baker is nothing more than a Fantasy reserve heading into Week 4 against the Cardinals.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker started Week 2 against the Patriots, but was held off the stat sheet and wasn't even targeted by QB Brett Favre.
Analysis: Baker just landed a fat extension from the Jets after a 41-catch season, but now he is sharing time with Dustin Keller and Bubba Franks, so it doesn't make sense why the Jets would give him a lucrative deal. Baker is nothing more than a Fantasy reserve heading into Week 3 against the Chargers.
News: The New York Jets have signed tight end Chris Baker to a contract extension, a team spokesman confirmed Wednesday night. The deal, first reported by the NFL Network, was completed last weekend and could keep the seven-year veteran with the Jets through the 2012 season. The team wouldn't divulge contract details, but it is reportedly for another three years on Baker's current deal. Baker, in the third year of a four-year contract worth $6.6 million, had a career-high 41 catches last season. The NFL Network reported that the deal will pay Baker $12.2 million over the three new years, which could include $9 million guaranteed if he plays in half the team's offensive plays this season. Baker could also become a free agent if New York decides against paying the guaranteed money.
Analysis: The 28-year-old Baker ripped the organization and demanded a trade during the summer, saying the Jets refused to renegotiate his contract after claiming that they told his former agent they would look into it. He missed a portion of minicamp after hurting his back during a practice, and was reportedly fined by the team for missing an injury treatment session. He tempered his scathing remarks during training camp, saying his current agent and the team were in contract talks. He had two catches for 34 yards in the season opener at Miami, and has 126 receptions for 1,345 yards and 12 touchdowns in his career. It's hard to believe the Jets would sign Baker to an extension after drafting Dustin Keller in the first round this year. Regardless, Baker is nothing more than a Fantasy reserve heading into Week 2 against the Patriots.
News: The New York Daily News took a look at the Jets tight end position in a scouting report Wednesday. "It should be fascinating to see how the playing time is split between incumbent Chris Baker, new vet Bubba Franks and talented rookie Dustin Keller. Look for a lot of double-tight end formations, with the speedy Keller split wide. Keller is the key to the passing game. Franks is supposed to help in the red zone, but he dropped too many balls in the preseason."
Analysis: The Jets will open the season with the Dolphins, and Keller is the best starting option of this trio. Keller could be worth using in Week 1 against Miami in deeper formats, but leave Baker and Franks alone this week and most of the season.
News: The Packers reached an agreement to trade QB Brett Favre to the New York Jets, the team announced late Wednesday night. It cost the Jets a conditional fourth-round pick in 2009, but the pick will escalate to a first-rounder if Favre appears in 80 percent of the plays and the Jets make it to the Super Bowl, according to a league source. The pick could be a second- or third-rounder depending on Favre's playing time and the Jets' performance. The trade agreement was structured to prevent the Jets from dealing Favre to the Vikings, his No. 1 choice. The Jets would have to give three No. 1 picks to the Packers if they made such a move, a ! league source confirmed. The Packers decided to move forward with Aaron Rodgers as their starter after Favre announced his retirement in March.
Analysis: TE Chris Baker is trying to work his way back from a back injury, and when he's healthy, playing with Favre should help. Baker still must contend with rookie TE Dustin Keller and veteran Bubba Franks, but Baker could still make a minimal impact now that Favre is on the roster. Don't draft Baker in any leagues at this time, but keep an eye on his progress during the season to see if he's worth adding off the waiver wire.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker was activated from the physically unable to perform list Monday after spending the first 11 days of camp on the sideline trying to rehabilitate his tweaked back. No longer limited to being a bike-riding bystander in practice, Baker worked with the first- and second-team offenses in the team's morning session. "I'm fortunate that this is my third year into the offense and we've added a few wrinkles, but I've been through that process the last two years, so I feel real good with the offense," he said. "We're excited, just trying to expand some of the things I can do for the team."
Analysis: Baker is perhaps the best all-around tight end on the Jets' roster. He's a standout blocker, as well as an athletic pass-catcher. He lined up in two-tight end sets with Franks at times Monday. Though he still wants a new contract, chances are many of his stats will go to rookie TE Dustin Keller, next year if not this year. Baker's not worth picking in Fantasy drafts this summer.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Wednesday that Jets coach Eric Mangini said he doesn't expect TE Chris Baker to be on the physically unable to perform list for an extended period.
Analysis: Despite this somewhat positive news, Baker is not part of the Jets future and might not see much playing time with Dustin Keller and possibly Bubba Franks ahead of Baker on the depth chart. Consider Baker nothing more than a low-end reserve at best and ignore him in all Fantasy drafts.
News: The New York Jets placed disgruntled TE Chris Baker on the active-physically unable to perform list on Monday. Baker, angry that the Jets have refused to renegotiate his contract, missed a portion of minicamp last month after tweaking his back during practice. He was reportedly fined by the team for missing an injury treatment session. Baker can't practice until he is removed from the list, which can happen at any point, but can participate in team meetings. The Jets' first training camp practices are Thursday. Baker, who had career highs with 41 catches and 409 yards last season, has asked to be traded but reported to camp Sunday with the quarterbacks and injured players.
Analysis: Baker's future with the Jets remains unclear, despite GM Mike Tannenbaum and coach Eric Mangini saying numerous times that they expect the tight end to play for them this season because he's under contract. Although Baker is acknowledged as perhaps New York's best all-around player at the position, he appears to be expendable. The Jets drafted speedy Purdue tight end Dustin Keller in the first round, signed former Pro Bowler Bubba Franks and also have A.J. Schable, Jason Pociask and James Dearth, primarily a long snapper, on the roster. Don't plan on drafting Baker in any Fantasy leagues this year. Keep an eye on what happens, but for now Baker has minimal Fantasy value.
News: The relationship between the Jets and disgruntled TE Chris Baker is deteriorating by the day, reports the New York Daily News. The club hit Baker with a $3,000 fine for missing an injury-treatment session at last week's mandatory minicamp, his agent, Jonathan Feinsod, confirmed Wednesday night. Baker will appeal, contending he did what was required. Baker, who boycotted voluntary workouts during the offseason because he's unhappy with his contract, showed up for minicamp and "tweaked something" in his back during warmups on the second day. He spent the day (two practices) riding a stationary bike, fueling speculation he feigned the injury to send a message to the Jets. Clearly, coach Eric Mangini wasn't happy. Baker said he wants to be traded if the Jets don't re-negotiate his deal, which has two years remaining.
Analysis: The Jets need to trade Baker at this point. They already have rookie Dustin Keller and signed Bubba Franks this offseason, Baker, who had new career highs with 41 catches and 409 yards last season, would be a No. 3 Fantasy TE if he stays with the Jets and would only be useful in deeper leagues during the bye weeks.
News:Chris Baker isn't happy with his contract, and he made sure everyone knew it on the first day of the New York Jets' mandatory minicamp Thursday. "If the situation was better, of course I'd want to be here," Baker said, "but the way things are right now, I really don't have the desire to be out here right now at this moment." Baker, who has asked to be traded, is disgruntled because he insists the Jets told his former agent, Cliff Brady, before last season that they would look into redoing his contract. His deal currently has two years remaining and pays him about $1.65 million a year. "It's just being fairly compensated," he said during a 16-minute meeting with the media. "That's what it's all about. I've been here a long time and always done what they've asked me to do, and then they indicated to me that I'd be taken care of and that hasn't happened."
Analysis: The Jets have refused to budge on Baker's contract, despite the tight end registering career highs with 41 catches and 409 yards last season. He currently is a No. 3 Fantasy TE if he stays with the Jets and would only be useful in deeper leagues during the bye weeks.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker remains missing from voluntary practice sessions, the New York Post reported Thursday. Coach Eric Mangini revealed that he's been in contact with Baker. "I've talked to Chris, and one of the things that's been important to Chris and I is that he stay current on the information," Mangini said. "What we've been focusing on is getting him the new information, making sure that he's up to date and giving him all the resources that he needs to be successful when he is here." When asked if Baker will be at the June 5-7 mandatory full-team minicamp, Mangini said, "We haven't talked about that, but everybody who is on the team is required to come to the mandatory minicamp, and that's my expectation of Chris."
Analysis: While neither Baker nor his representative, Jonathan Feinsod, will comment on what Baker's plans are for the minicamp, someone close to Baker has told The Post that he will not only be at the minicamp but training camp as well. That's good news for Fantasy owners, who are counting on Baker as a low-end No. 2 TE in 2008. Baker should never start for most Fantasy teams, especially since the Jets added rookie TE Dustin Keller and free agent Bubba Franks this offseason, but Baker is a good reserve, so showing up for training camp is a good sign.
News: As expected, disgruntled Jets TE Chris Baker didn't participate Monday in the team's first voluntary practice, reports the New York Daily News. Baker is boycotting the offseason program because he feels the Jets reneged on a promise to renegotiate his contract. Baker, coming off his best season, is entering the third year of a four-year, $6.6 million contract. He's upset because recently signed backup Bubba Franks is making the same amount on a one-year deal. Baker also will make less than rookie tight end Dustin Keller, a first-round pick. Keller hasn't signed yet but figures to receive a five-year deal for about $2.3 million per. Baker, who has asked to be traded, can't be fined by the Jets unless he misses the mandatory minicamp next month.
Analysis: This could get messy for Baker and the Jets. Unfortunately for Baker, the Jets don't have a pressing need for his services with Franks and more importantly Keller on the roster. Keep an eye on what develops, but Baker has minimal Fantasy value heading into 2008 even if he was at all the workouts this offseason. At best he's a No. 2 TE worthy of use when injuries or the bye weeks occur.
News: The New York Daily News reports that the Jets are not willing to give TE Chris Baker a new contract despite his trade demands and boycotting of the team's voluntary offseason workouts. Baker said earlier that the Jets reneged on a promise that they would extend his contract. Baker has since seen the club sign free-agent TE Bubba Franks and draft rookie TE Dustin Keller with a late first-round pick.
Analysis: Obviously, this won't end well for Baker. If he stays with the Jets, he'll be splitting time with Franks and Keller (Keller will get the receiving workload). But all signs point to Baker hitting the street, and that means he'll latch on elsewhere, likely as a reserve tight end. No matter what, Baker is no better than a No. 3 Fantasy TE, barely worth a draft pick in the deepest of Fantasy Football leagues this summer.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker, who has been with the Jets for six years and is coming off a career-high 41 catches in 2007, has expressed his desire to have his contract redone. Baker is scheduled to make $683,500 this season and $2.1 million next year. So far, the Jets aren't budging. If he can't get a raise, Baker has expressed his desire to be traded. It doesn't look like that is happening, either, reports NorthJersey.com. "Chris is on our team," general manager Mike Tannenbaum said. "We expect him to be here for all of the mandatory events" such as June minicamp. The GM made those comments shortly after the Jets traded up six spots to select Purdue tight end Dustin Keller with the 30th pick. Tannenbaum denied that the drafting of Keller, who is considered an excellent receiver with no blocking skills, was a message to Baker.
Analysis: Look for Baker to stay with the Jets but lose catches and playing time to Keller. Baker should not be drafted in most Fantasy leagues in 2008 and has little appeal as long as Keller is healthy.
News: With the 30th pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Jets traded up to get Purdue TE Dustin Keller. Keller had a terrific Combine and fits in as a seam-busting receiving tight end.
Analysis: This likely spells the end of TE Chris Baker in New York, especially after he walked out of minicamp early. Keller has a shot at 300-to-400 receiving yards and could wind up being a bye-week replacement tight end in 2008. He's worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal drafts, and he's worth a top-25 choice in rookie-only drafts. Chris Baker, meanwhile, loses a lot of steam as a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker set new career-highs in catches (41) and yards (411) in 2007. He also added three touchdowns in 15 games.
Analysis: Baker played well despite the switching of quarterbacks from Chad Pennington to Kellen Clemens and vice versa. Look for Baker to remain in the same role as a No. 2 Fantay TE in the majority of leagues. He will always be a good injury or bye-week replacement, but he is not someone you ever want to count on as a starter.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) took limited reps in practice all week with the same ailment that limited him in practice leading up to Week 16. He played in that game, catching four passes for 40 yards.
Analysis: Baker would serve as merely a low-end Fantasy TE if he plays, and the team lists him as questionable for Week 17 against the Chiefs.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker totaled 40 or more yards for the third straight game during a Week 16 loss to the Titans. Baker caught four passes for 40 yards, including a long gain of 18 yards. He now has 15 catches for 152 yards in his last three games.
Analysis: The Jets have gone to Baker more in the last few games, but he is still stuck on three touchdowns and his emergence is a little late in Fantasy leagues. He is still nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE Week 17 against the Chiefs.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is active and starting Week 16 at Tennessee after being listed as questionable on the injury report. Baker ran through limited practice reps all week. Baker has been bothered by a back injury since Week 7, but has missed just one game and been active for the last seven. He caught eight passes for 66 yards Week 15 against the Patriots.
Analysis: Baker had one of his finest performances Week 15 in horrible weather conditions. Baker might get a break from bad weather Week 16, but is still far too unreliable to be trusted as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is listed as questionable for Week 16 at Tennnessee. Baker ran through limited practice reps all week. Baker has been bothered by a back injury since Week 7, but has missed just one game and been active for the last seven. He caught eight passes for 66 yards Week 15 against the Patriots.
Analysis: Baker had one of his finest performances Week 15 in horrible weather conditions. Baker might get a break from bad weather Week 16, but is still far too unreliable to be trusted as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 16 at Tennessee. Baker has been bothered by a back injury since Week 7, but has missed just one game and been active for the last seven. He caught eight passes for 66 yards Week 15 against the Patriots.
Analysis: Baker had one of his finest performances Week 15 in horrible weather conditions. Baker might get a break from bad weather Week 16, but is still far too unreliable to be trusted as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught eight passes for 66 yards with a fumble in the team's Week 15 game at New England. Baker led the club in receptions and receiving yards.
Analysis: Not bad stats for playing in windy, rainy conditions. Baker remains a top-end No. 2 Fantasy TE worth a look when the Jets play at the Titans in Week 16.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is listed as questionable for Week 15 at New England. Baker has been bothered by the back injury since Week 7, but has missed just one game. He has been active for the last six games. Baker was limited in practice all week.
Analysis: Baker just can't seem to shake the nagging back injury. Luckily, he hasn't missed much time due to the injury. He is expected to take the field against the Pats and can be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) took limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 15 at New England. Baker, who has been active for the last six straight games, has five catches for 48 yards and zero touchdowns in two December games.
Analysis: Baker has been taking full practice reps in recent weeks despite nursing a sore back, but has only missed one game this season. He is expected to play Week 15 and is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy TE.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught three passes for 48 yards Week 14 against the Browns.
Analysis: Baker gets the occasional touchdown, but he's really nothing more than a low-end tight end in Fantasy. The Jets visit the Patriots in Week 15.
News: The Jets didn't list TE Chris Baker (back) as inactive for Week 14, meaning he'll suit up and play against the Browns.
Analysis: Baker is merely a low-end Fantasy option, so you probably shouldn't disrupt your Fantasy lineup for him at this point.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is listed as probable for Week 14 vs. Cleveland. Baker has been bothered by the back injury since Week 7, but has missed just one game. He has been active for the last five games and went through full practices all week.
Analysis: Baker just can't seem to shake the nagging back injury, luckily, he hasn't missed much time due to the injury. He is expected to take the field against the Browns and can be considered a low-end Fantasy TE.
News: TE Chris Baker didn't bake a touchdown in Week 13, but he did catch two balls for 10 yards in the Jets' 40-13 rout of Miami.
Analysis: Baker doesn't get nearly enough looks in the Jets receiving game to be worthy of any Fantasy consideration at this time. The Jets host the Browns in Week 14.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is listed as probable for Week 13 at Miami. He went through full practices all week. Baker has 11 catches for 112 yards and one touchdown in three November games.
Analysis: Baker has two touchdowns in six games vs. Miami, who are slightly susceptible to useful, pass-catching TEs, especially when Zach Thomas isn't in the lineup. Baker is worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy TE in Week 13.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker is nursing a minor back injury, but participated fully in practice on Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for their Week 13 game at Miami.
Analysis: Baker has two touchdowns in six games vs. Miami, who are slightly susceptible to useful, pass-catching TEs, especially when Zach Thomas isn't in the lineup. Baker is worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy TE in Week 13.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker hauled in three passes for 36 yards Week 12 at Dallas. He also returned a kick nine yards.
Analysis: Baker gets the occasional touchdown, but he's really nothing more than a low-end tight end in Fantasy. The Jets play the Dolphins in Week 13 at Miami.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) went through a full practice Tuesday and Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 12 at Dallas. Baker, who has been bothered by the back injury since Week 7, has missed just one game. He's listed as probable and is expected to start.
Analysis: Baker caught four passes for 34 yards, including a 1-yard touchdown grab, during a Week 11 win against the Steelers. His longest gain went for 14 yards, and the touchdown grab was his third this season and first since Week 3. He's a good No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 12 action.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) went through a full practice Tuesday as the team prepares for Week 12 at Dallas. Baker, who has been bothered by the back injury since Week 7, has missed just one game.
Analysis: Baker caught four passes for 34 yards, including a 1-yard touchdown grab, during a Week 11 win against the Steelers. His longest gain went for 14 yards, and the touchdown grab was his third this season and first since Week 3. He's a good No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 12 action.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught four passes for 34 yards, including a 1-yard touchdown grab, during a Week 11 win against the Steelers. His longest gain went for 14 yards. The touchdown grab was his third this season and first since Week 3.
Analysis: Baker is becoming a favorite target of QB Kellen Clemens. Since being named the starting quarterback Week 8 against the Redskins, Baker has eight grabs for 76 yards and a score. In fact, two of Baker's three touchdowns have come with Clemens under center. Consider Baker a low-end Fantasy TE heading into Week 12 against the Cowboys.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is active and starting Week 11 against the Steelers after being listed as probable on the injury report. Baker, who has been bothered by the back injury since Week 7, has missed just one game.
Analysis: Baker is at best a desperation TE option in Fantasy play. Don't count on him to be a reliable option. He's more of a No. 2 type.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) went through full practices all week and is probable for Week 11 vs. Pittsburgh. Baker, who has been bothered by the back injury since Week 7, has missed just one game.
Analysis: Baker is at best a desperation TE option in Fantasy play. Don't count on him to be a reliable option. He's more of a No. 2 type.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) went through a full practice Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 11 vs. Pittsburgh. Baker, who has been bothered by the back injury since Week 7, has missed just one game.
Analysis: Baker has 17 catches for 177 yards and two touchdowns this season. He is coming off one of his better performances against the Redskins in Week 9, when he caught four passes for 42 yards. In two starts with Kellen Clemens under center, Baker has five catches for 45 yards and one touchdown. Perhaps some rapport is developing. Consider Baker a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 11.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught four passes for 42 yards in Week 9 vs. Washington.
Analysis: Baker had been questionable all week with a back issue, but seemed perfectly healthy and developed a good rapport with newly named starter Kellen Clemens. He's worth owning as a No. 2 Fantasy tight end in larger leagues, but the Jets will be on a bye in Week 10.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is listed as questionable for Week 9 vs. Washington. He took limited reps in practice all week. Baker returned to action Week 8 against the Bills, also listed as questionable, after missing his first game Week 7. He caught just one pass against the Bills.
Analysis: Baker has just 13 catches for 135 yards and two touchdowns in seven games. He is nothing more than a bye-week Fantasy replacement for Week 9, if he plays. Continue to track his progress leading up to Sunday's inactives.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 9 vs. Washington. Baker returned to action Week 8 against the Bills after missing his first game Week 7. He caught just one pass against the Bills.
Analysis: Baker has just 13 catches for 135 yards and two touchdowns in seven games. He is nothing more than a bye-week Fantasy replacement for Week 9, if he plays. Continue to track his progress.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught an 11-yard pass Week 8 against the Bills. He also lost a yard on a kickoff return.
Analysis: Chris Baker the touchdown maker was nothing of the sort Sunday and, in reality, has "made" only two touchdowns this season. Consider him nothing more than a bye-week replacement Week 9 against the Redskins.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is listed as questionable for Week 8 at Buffalo. He went through limited practice reps all week. Baker missed his first game of the season Week 7. He has 12 catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns in six games.
Analysis: Baker, in his sixth season with the Jets, has been one of quarterback Chad Pennington's most reliable targets. The former third-round pick out of Michigan State had a breakout season last year, catching a career-high 31 passes for 300 yards and four touchdowns. He is nothing more than a possible bye-week Fantasy replacement when healthy. If active Week 8, consider starting Baker because the Bills have a poor pass defense. Fantasy owners will need to follow this situation up until inactives.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) took limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 8 vs. Buffalo. Baker missed his first game of the season Week 7. He has 12 catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns in six games.
Analysis: Baker, in his sixth season with the Jets, has been one of quarterback Chad Pennington's most reliable targets. The former third-round pick out of Michigan State had a breakout season last year, catching a career-high 31 passes for 300 yards and four touchdowns. He is nothing more than a possible bye-week Fantasy replacement when healthy. If active Week 8, consider starting Baker because the Bills have a poor pass defense.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) took limited practice reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 8 vs. Buffalo. Baker missed his first game of the season Week 7. He has 12 catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns in six games.
Analysis: Baker, in his sixth season with the Jets, has been one of quarterback Chad Pennington's most reliable targets. The former third-round pick out of Michigan State had a breakout season last year, catching a career-high 31 passes for 300 yards and four touchdowns. He is nothing more than a possible bye-week Fantasy replacement when healthy. If active Week 8, consider starting Baker because the Bills have a poor pass defense.
News: The Jets inactives for Week 7 against the Bengals include TE Chris Baker, WR David Clowney, TE Jason Pociask, DB Andre Dyson, DL Mike Devito and QB Marques Tuiasosopo.
Analysis: Keep Baker reserved in all Fantasy leagues. All the other players have minimal Fantasy value and should not be used.
News: Jets tight end Chris Baker won't play in New York's game at Cincinnati after he was downgraded Saturday from questionable to out with a back injury. Baker, who has 12 catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns, was limited in practice all week and didn't accompany the team to Cincinnati. It was unclear when Baker was hurt, and it's against the Jets' policy to discuss injuries.
Analysis: Baker, in his sixth season with the Jets, has been one of quarterback Chad Pennington's most reliable targets. The former third-round pick out of Michigan State had a breakout season last year, catching a career-high 31 passes for 300 yards and four touchdowns. Keep him reserved in Week 7 now and until further notice. The Jets have plenty of depth at the tight end position, with Sean Ryan, Joe Kowalewski, Jason Pociask and James Dearth, normally the long snapper, on the roster.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) is listed as questionable for Week 7 at Cincinnati. Baker went through limited practice reps all week. Baker has 12 catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns through six games.
Analysis: Baker has played in every game to date, and barring any setbacks, should take the field Sunday against the Bengals, who own one of the worst passing defenses in the leagues. This might be Baker's week to score a touchdown. Treat him as a possible bye-week Fantasy replacement. The Jets probably just wanted to take it easy on him during the week, so he didn't put any more stress on his back.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker (back) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 7 at Cincinnati. Baker has 12 catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns through six games.
Analysis: Baker has played in every game to date, and barring any setbacks, should take the field Sunday against the Bengals, who own one of the worst passing defenses in the leagues. This might be Baker's week to score a touchdown. Treat him as a possible bye-week Fantasy replacement.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had two catches for 12 yards Sunday against the Eagles.
Analysis: Baker is a No. 2 TE and should only be used if needed in Week 7 against the Bengals.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught three passes for 52 yards in Week 5 at the N.Y. Giants. He did not score a touchdown for the second consecutive week.
Analysis: Baker is a big target in the red zone, but he doesn't see enough action between the twenties to be considered anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 6 vs. Philadelphia.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker won't get a lot of passes or yards this week or on any week. But he catches touchdowns (two on the season), and the Giants have trouble defending tight ends. In the first three games this season, Jason Witten, Bubba Franks, Donald Lee and Chris Cooley scored touchdowns against the Giants.
Analysis: Baker doesn't get targeted enough to be a reliable TE option, but he might be worth a shot in Week 5 as a bye-week replacement.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught three passes for 24 yards in Week 4 at Buffalo.
Analysis: That snapped a streak of two straight games with a touchdown for Baker, "the touchdown maker". He's still a cheap source for the occasional touchdown, but shouldn't be relied upon as a regular Fantasy tight end. He's better used as an injury or bye-week replacement for Week 5 vs. the Giants. The Giants have had a tough time defending against tight ends this year.
News: Chris Baker has scored in each of his last two games this season and heads to Buffalo in Week 4, where he'll go up against the worst pass defense in the league in the Bills. Baker scored at Buffalo last season.
Analysis: Baker is a low-end starting Fantasy TE this week. If you must start two tight ends, Baker would do fine as the second one.
News: For the second straight week, Jets WR Chris Baker caught a touchdown Sunday in a 31-28 win over the Miami Dolphins. It was his only catch of the day.
Analysis: They don't call him 'The Touchdown Maker' for no good reason. However, Baker won't keep this pace up and doesn't get nearly enough touches in the Jets offense to be considered more than a low-end bye-week replacement TE at best.
News: The Dolphins have done a great job defending tight ends this year. They held Chris Cooley and Jason Witten to a combined three catches for 37 yards this season. Jets TE Chris Baker had one catch for three yards and a touchdown last week against the Ravens.
Analysis: Baker might not have to contend with Zach Thomas on Sunday, but he isn't the greatest cover LB anyway. Expect Chad Pennington to focus more on Dolphin-killer Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker made one catch for three yards in the Jets' Week 2 loss to the Ravens, but it was for a third-quarter touchdown that brought the Jets to within seven points.
Analysis: Baker doesn't get enough looks in the Jets offense to be worth picking up as a regular TE, but he could be a useful bye-week replacement further down the road.
News: It should be another quiet week for the Touchdown Maker. He had two catches for 29 yards in Week 1 against New England, and facing the Ravens won't be an easy task.
Analysis: Baker is only owned in nine percent of leagues, so he's obviously not regarded very highly in most Fantasy leagues. Leave him alone for the Jets' Week 2 matchup at Baltimore.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had two catches for 29 yards Sunday against the Patriots.
Analysis: Baker is a low-end TE and should not be used in Week 2 against Baltimore.
News: Chris Baker has his own travel Web site and can tell vacationers all about the best places to see and stay in Rome, Costa Rica, Cancun and the Dominican Republic. The New York Jets' tight end wouldn't mind taking a few more trips into the end zone this season. "Hopefully so," Baker said. "Since I've been here, we've always had a good rushing attack and with Thomas Jones being here now, I think he'll get us back to that because last year we struggled a little bit with the run. He'll just help everybody on offense, including me."
Analysis: Baker set career highs with 31 catches for 300 yards and four touchdowns last season, and the Jets are excited about the potential for more playmaking opportunities. "Any time we can get him the football, we're definitely going to try to do it," quarterback Chad Pennington said. "I've seen improvements in Chris since he was a rookie. Every year, he's gotten better." Baker was drafted in the third round out of Michigan State in 2002 after setting the school record for tight ends with 133 catches for 1,705 yards and 13 touchdowns. Baker heads into the season as a No. 2 Fantasy TE. He will have to show us he can be a super productive player before being bumped up in the rankings.
News: According to the Newark Star-Ledger, Jets TE Chris Baker has looked good in minicamp. Last year, Baker had 31 catches for 300 yards and four touchdowns.
Analysis: Baker is always a good No. 2 TE option and potential bye-week replacement. He should not be drafted in any leagues.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught two passes for 19 yards in Week 17 vs. Oakland.
Analysis: Baker was good for the occasional touchdown, making him a decent No. 2 Fantasy TE in 2006. He'll be worth a late-round flier in 2007 Fantasy drafts.
News: Chris Baker had just one reception for 11 yards in Week 16 at Miami.
Analysis: Baker is not worth using in Week 17 against Oakland and will have little Fantasy appeal heading into the 2007 season.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught two passes for 17 yards in Week 14 against the Bills.
Analysis: Baker is OK to use as a low-end Fantasy TE at Minnesota in Week 15.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught four passes for 50 yards with a wide-open touchdown grab in the second quarter at Green Bay in Week 13.
Analysis: Baker is OK to use as a low-end Fantasy TE vs. Buffalo in Week 14.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught one pass for 28 yards in Week 12 vs. Houston.
Analysis: Baker is far too irregular to count on for Week 13 at Green Bay.
News: Notable Jets players who put up some stats in Week 11 include: WR Tim Dwight (28-yard rush, 40 yards receiving), WR Jerricho Cotchery (25 receiving yards), WR Brad Smith (6-yard rush, 7-yard catch) and TE Chris Baker (3-yard catch).
Analysis: Dwight had a nice game but shouldn't be of use in Fantasy leagues that don't count return yardage. Cotchery, though, is a nice No. 3 Fantasy RB vs. Houston in Week 12. Smith and Baker are fringe players in Fantasy circles.
News: Notable Jets offensive players from Week 10 at New England include: WR Justin McCareins (three catches, 31 yards), WR Tim Dwight (two catches, 14 yards), FB B.J. Askew (two catches, 9 yards) and TE Chris Baker (7-yard catch).
Analysis: None of these players should be used vs. Chicago in Week 11.
News: Jets head coach Eric Mangini said Monday that he's happy with TE Chris Baker's season thus far and was willing to get him more involved in the passing game at the start of the season. "He's been one of the guys that I recognize as in the offseason taking a different approach, and it started with his body," Mangini said. "He had a different approach in the offseason and then his commitment to the OTAs, his commitment in training camp, the way that he blocks in the running game, the way that he's improved his pass protection. He's a selfless guy, not a lot of tight ends that consistently do the things that he does, and does it without ever mentioning the fact that he would like more balls, and everybody would like more balls."
Analysis: Baker is a fine No. 2 Fantasy TE worth owning in deeper Fantasy leagues. He should be mildly productive at New England in Week 10.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had one reception for 17 yards in a 20-13 loss to the Browns in Week 8. Baker did have a touchdown catch taken away from him as the Jets were about to tie the game late in the fourth quarter. On fourth-and-four with about a minute left, QB Chad Pennington hit Baker for what looked like the game-tying score. Baker made a one-handed grab and was shoved out of bounds before getting two feet down. However, since the refs ruled he wouldn't have come down in bounds, the Jets could not challenge the play and lost the game.
Analysis: Baker is slowly starting to emerge as a reliable target in the Jets offense. He now has 15 receptions for 132 yards and two touchdowns. He still isn't a solid Fantasy option, but he could be viewed as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE. The Jets are on a bye in Week 9.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had one catch for 16 yards in a 31-24 win over the Lions in Week 7.
Analysis: Baker should only be used in deep Fantasy leagues at this point since he is too inconsistent to be counted on.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught four passes for 39 yards in Week 6 as the Jets won 20-17 over the Dolphins.
Analysis: Baker should only be used in deep Fantasy leagues at this point since he is too inconsistent to be counted on.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had no catches against Jacksonville.
Analysis: Baker should only be used in deep Fantasy leagues at this point since he is too inconsistent to be counted on.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught one pass for six yards vs. Indianapolis in Week 4.
Analysis: Baker is normally not a reliable Fantasy TE option. Do not use him when the Jets play at Jacksonville in Week 5.
News: According to NewYorkJets.com, head coach Eric Mangini had some positive comments to say Friday about tight end Chris Baker. "As I said with Chris, I've liked his work ethic, his approach, the way he's reshaped his body, and you're seeing that come to fruition with some of the production that he's had in the passing game and really in the running game, which I think goes a little bit unnoticed," Mangini said. "Chris has gotten opportunities and taken advantage of opportunities, and he made the big play there in Tennessee, which was a really nice pattern and catch. I think that consistent taking advantage of the opportunity is going to help him and us.
Analysis: Baker won't be someone we recommend in most formats until he proves on a more consistent basis he can make plays. He could be considered a decent bye-week replacement option for Week 4 vs. Indianapolis. There is always the possibility that QB Chad Pennington will find him in the end zone.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker caught his second TD pass of the season in Week 3 at Buffalo. He finished with three catches for 15 yards.
Analysis: Baker won't be someone we recommend in most formats, but he could be considered a decent bye-week replacement option for Week 4 vs. Indianapolis. There is always the possibility that QB Chad Pennington will find him in the end zone.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had one reception for five yards in a Week 2 loss to the Patriots.
Analysis: Baker has very little Fanatasy value at this time. Baker remains just a bye-week replacement option.
News: Chris Baker caught four passes for 34 yards and a TD in the Jets' Week 1 win at the N.Y. Jets.
Analysis: Don't get too excited. Despite the solid game, Baker remains just a bye-week replacement option.
News: The Jets re-signed TE Chris Baker, who played with the team last year. "Chris provides us with a strong blocking component in our offense," said head coach Eric Mangini. "I appreciate the fact that he is committed to developing as a player and fitting into the team concept that we are building."
Analysis: Baker was a Week 1 stud last season, then fell off the map and ultimately ended his season with a broken ankle. He's a blocking TE first, and that's why he's not a reliable starting Fantasy option. He is a decent No. 2 as a bye-week replacement.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker started nine games and finished with 269 yards and a touchdown in 2005, but missed the second half of the season with a broken ankle. In Week 1, Baker had 124 receiving yards and a TD, and went pretty much silent after that.
Analysis: Baker is a free agent this coming offseason and isn't a likely candidate for major Fantasy consideration.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker broke his ankle in Week 9 vs. San Diego and was placed on Injured Reserve. He will not play again this season.
Analysis: Baker had a great Week 1 and stunk the rest of the season. He should be dropped in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker left the team's Week 9 game vs. San Diego with a leg injury. He was helped off the field and carted off into the locker room. He finished with two catches for 49 yards.
Analysis: Doug Jolley replaced Baker. Monitor his status for his availability in Week 10 at Carolina.
News: Baker did not post a reception in Week 6 at Buffalo.
Analysis: Baker will look to get back on track in Week 7 in Atlanta on Monday night. After a quick start, Baker now has only minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Jets TE Chris Baker had one catch for 11 yards vs. Tampa Bay in Week 5.
Analysis: Baker has become a very unreliable Fantasy tight end. He should be avoided at Buffalo in Week 6.
News: Baker had three receptions for 29 yards in Week 4 at Baltimore.
Analysis: Baker, who got off to a big start in Week 1, is best used in Fantasy leagues of 14 or more teams which require a tight end. The Jets host the Buccaneers in Week 5.
News: Baker had three receptions for 45 yards in Week 3 against the Jaguars.
Analysis: Baker is a decent Fantasy tight end in leagues which require a starter at the position.
News: Chris Baker caught seven passes for 124 yards and scored one touchdown in Sunday's 27-7 loss to Kansas City.
Analysis: Baker will be worth a waiver-wire move in most leagues after this impressive performance.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports TE Chris Baker worked hard to earn the starting job and snare it away from Doug Jolley. "(Baker) has been very consistent," head coach Herm Edwards said. "He really knew he was going to be the starter. We had some expectations he needed to meet. He did that."
Analysis: Baker may start for the Jets but isn't a good starting option in Fantasy Football.
News: The Daily News reports Doug Jolley has been dropped to No. 2 on the Jets' depth chart in favor of Chris Baker.
Analysis: Baker now warrants late-round consideration in drafts.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports TE Chris Baker has held off Doug Jolley for the starting job.
Analysis: Baker is more of a blocking tight end whereas Jolley is a pass-catching tight end, so don't think much of this. Baker still shouldn't be picked in drafts.
News: The Jets official website reports team GM Terry Bradway said Chris Baker will have a chance to become the team's starting tight end under new offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger. "We feel very good about Chris Baker, and I think this will be an opportunity for Chris to really break out," Bradway said. "He has a lot of ability as a blocker, and I think he's been a little underrated as a pass receiver. So this is an opportunity for him that he has to take advantage of."
Analysis: Baker could have some sleeper value next season, though the Jets are rumored to want a TE in the NFL Draft. Virginia's Heath Miller comes to mind as a first-round option.
News: The North Jersey Record reports Chris Baker is confident he can be an effective No. 1 TE next season. "I didn't get a chance my first three years. I haven't lost my hands or anything," Baker said. "We have some real good skill position guys. I want to be that other link that makes the offense click. I've got to go out and prove I'm worthy of being the starter. I'm pretty sure I'll be able to do that."
Analysis: Baker could have some sleeper value next season, though the Jets are rumored to select a TE in the NFL Draft.
News: According to reports, the New York Jets have re-signed Chris Baker.
Analysis: Baker could have some sleeper value next season, though the Jets are rumored to select a TE in the NFL Draft.
News: Baker (hand) was able to suit up in Week 12 at Arizona, but he did not have a reception.
Analysis: Baker will look to get back on the scoresheet in Week 13 against Houston. He has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: According to New York Newsday, Jets tight end Chris Baker (hand) was able to practice and remains probable for Week 11 at Cleveland.
Analysis: Baker broke his hand in Week 10 but apparently is able to play. He should only be owned as a reserve in larger leagues.
News: According to New York Newsday, Jets tight end Chris Baker broke a hand in Week 10 against Baltimore.
Analysis: There is no word on how much time Baker will miss but it is safe to assume he will be out at least a couple games.
News: Baker had only one reception for one yard in Week 8 against Miami, but it was good for a touchdown.
Analysis: Baker is only worth using in larger Fantasy leagues which require a starting tight end.
News: Baker had three receptions for 26 yards in Week 7 at New England.
Analysis: Baker is only worth using in Fantasy leagues of 14 or more teams which require a starting tight end.
News: Baker had only one reception for 11 yards in Week 5 against San Francisco.
Analysis: Baker has only nine receptions in five games. He is not worth using in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Baker had three receptions for 33 yards and a touchdown in Week 5 against the Bills.
Analysis: Despite the score, Baker is best used as a reserve in most larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Baker caught three passes for 20 yards and a touchdown at the Chargers Sunday.
Analysis: There are too many quality tight end options out there right now to worry if Baker is the real thing. Anthony Becht started ahead of him Sunday. The Jets are on a bye in Week 3.
News:Newsday reports Chris Baker split time with Anthony Becht in Wednesday's practice.
Analysis: Baker could be worth a pickup in larger leagues if he starts to see increased playing time.
