MIAMI SIGNS CONVICTED DRUG DEALER

DAVIE, Fla.- Robert Baker, a former Auburn receiver who spent 10 months in
jail for drug trafficking, resumed his football career Tuesday when he
joined the Miami Dolphins.

The undrafted rookie free agent took part in the start of the Dolphins'
three-day mini-camp. He signed a one-year contract Monday for $175,000, the
NFL minimum.

"Our whole country and our lives are dealing with second chances," Dolphins
coach Jimmy Johnson said. "A lot of people get second chances, whether it's
a husband or wife or president or what have you. We decided to give him a
second chance."

Baker, 23, was released on parole March 22 after serving a fraction of his
15-year sentence. He was arrested in April 1998 after selling cocaine three
times to undercover police.

"He realizes he made a mistake, but that's part of his past," said Baker's
agent, Rick Davis. "He's paid for it and will pay for it the rest of his
life. He just wants an opportunity and a second chance. The Dolphins have
given him that, and he's appreciative."

The Dolphins' offense includes two other players trying to rebound from
legal problems.

Receiver Tony Martin, a starter last year for the NFC champion Atlanta
Falcons, faces a federal trial Aug. 2 on charges of laundering drug money.
Rookie running back Cecil Collins spent a month in jail after pleading
guilty to charges of fondling two women.