Hogs' Pipeline To Chargers Continues

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Chargers announced the signing of rookie mini camp tryout participant and former Arkansas punter Toby Baker on Wednesday.

Baker averaged 43.0 yards per punt across 27 games for the Razorbacks. He boomed 27 punts of at least 50 yards, including a career-high of 60 yards, while 45 of his attempts landed inside the 20-yard line.

A Burlsworth Trophy semifinalist, Baker punted 57 times and finished with a 44.4 average to rank fourth in the SEC and 13th nationally as a senior in 2016. He booted 21 punts 50 yards or longer, including a career-best 60-yarder at Missouri that was downed at the 1-yard line. In addition, he showcased his accuracy throughout the season, placing 23 punts inside the 20 with only three touchbacks. The Memphis, Tennessee, product allowed only 101 yards on 18 returns for a 5.6 average.

In 2015, Baker averaged 41.2 yards per kick, punting 43 times for 1,772 yards. He pinned 23 punts inside the 20 – including 13 of his last 22 – with only two touchbacks. In addition, he had six punts of 50-plus yards, allowed only 125 yards on 18 returns, and did not have a punt blocked.

Baker was one of three walk-ons awarded a scholarship after the 2015 regular season, prior to the 2016 AutoZone Liberty Bowl.