Former USC standout Sam Baker out for the season for Falcons

Former Trojan Sam Baker is out for the season with the Atlanta Falcons.

The starting left tackle was carted off the field in the second quarter of a preseason game Saturday against the Houston Texans.
AtlantaFalcons.com confirms a torn patellar tendon in Baker’s right knee.

This is the latest setback in what’s become an injury trend for the 6-foot-5, 301-pound tackle. A four-year starter at USC from 2004-07, he has only been available to play two complete seasons in Atlanta since he was selected as a first round pick in 2008. He started four games in 2013 before undergoing season ending surgery on his left knee.
“Sam had worked extremely hard to get back on the field after missing most of last season, and he was having a good camp.” Falcons Coach Mike Smith said in a released statement. “I know he is disappointed, but I also know he is a very resilient football player and will do whatever he can to bounce back.”

Baker signed a six-year contract with Atlanta on March 14, 2013.