Stephen Baker

Here’s a detailed, SEO-optimized profile of Stephen Baker (born August 30, 1964), American athlete:

Stephen Baker – Life, Career, and Legacy

: Stephen Edward Baker (born August 30, 1964) was an NFL wide receiver for the New York Giants and a Super Bowl champion. Learn about his life, career highlights, and post-football work.

Introduction

Stephen Edward Baker (born August 30, 1964) is a former American professional football player, best known as a wide receiver for the New York Giants in the National Football League (NFL). Affectionately nicknamed “The Touchdown Maker,” Baker’s career spanned six seasons, culminating in a Super Bowl ring in Super Bowl XXV. His journey from college standout to NFL contributor—and his life after the game—reflects perseverance, athleticism, and community engagement.

Early Life & Education

Stephen Baker was born in San Antonio, Texas on August 30, 1964. Alexander Hamilton High School in Los Angeles, California, where he lettered in football, track, and gymnastics.

After high school, Baker played for West Los Angeles Community College before transferring to Fresno State University, where he distinguished himself in collegiate football. 62 passes and scored 16 touchdowns, averaging over 26 yards per reception in that period. Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame for his collegiate achievements.

NFL Career & Achievements

Draft & Early Years

Baker was selected in the third round (83rd overall) of the 1987 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. 5 ft 8 in and 160 lbs—but he compensated with speed, agility, and strong hands.

Performance & Notable Games

Baker played his entire professional career (1987–1992) with the Giants. Over those six seasons, he recorded:

• 141 receptions

• 2,587 receiving yards

• 21 receiving touchdowns

His best statistical season was in 1988, when he caught 40 passes for 656 yards and 7 touchdowns, including a memorable 85-yard catch.

In Super Bowl XXV, Baker contributed two catches for 31 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Jeff Hostetler in the second quarter. That play was part of the Giants’ narrow 20–19 win over the Buffalo Bills.

However, statistical analysts later noted that from 1991 to 2011, Baker had one of the lowest catch rates among NFL wide receivers (28.8 %) in that span.

Style & Strengths

Baker’s physical attributes were modest for his position, but he made up for it with:

• Explosive speed and route precision

• Reliability in contested catches

• Big-play ability (his average yards per catch was high)

• Tenacity in a league often favoring larger receivers

Because of his productivity in crucial situations, he earned the nickname “The Touchdown Maker.”

Life After Football & Personal Contributions

After retiring from the NFL, Baker remained active in community and youth work. For example:

• He became a school teacher at James J. Flynn Elementary in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, and also coached football and track.

• He participates in Giants alumni outreach, visiting schools, youth camps, and special events to mentor young people.

• Baker and his wife Althea (a school administrator) live in Perth Amboy, and they have children, including Ashley, Stephen Baker Jr., Joshua, and JaMon Dunn.

In recognition of his contributions to his college, Baker was inducted into the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame in 2008. Alumni Man of the Year in 2009.

Outside of football, Baker has a hobbyist interest in radio-controlled airplanes and helicopters.

Legacy & Impact

Stephen Baker’s legacy is that of a player who overcame physical limitations through skill, determination, and big-play capability. His contributions to a Super Bowl champion squad, his post-career dedication to youth, and his role in inspiring athletes from non-prototype backgrounds make his story memorable.

He also reminds us that in team sports, humility, work ethic, and consistency can sometimes matter as much as raw talent. Baker’s path encourages aspiring athletes who might not fit conventional molds to persevere.