In May 1952, the Associated Press wrote that Baer "sparkled" in spring practice, leading Michigan head coach Bennie Oosterbaan to say, "He's going to be a real football player.

"[7] As a sophomore in 1952, Baer started three games at fullback,[8] but was used principally as a backup for Dick Balzhiser and Bob Hurley during the 1952 and 1953 seasons.

[11] Baer played for the Wolverines on defense as well as offense and was considered "a vicious tacker and a hard runner.

[15] Baer was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 14th round (161st overall pick) of the 1955 NFL draft.

[17][18] Baer died in March 2007 at age 74; he was a resident of La Grange, Illinois at the time of his death.