In a significant move for both the player and the franchise, Budda Baker and the Arizona Cardinals have agreed on a three-year contract extension that cements Baker's place with the team through 2027. The new deal, reportedly worth $50 million with $30 million guaranteed, is a testament to Baker's enduring value and performance on the field.
The contract places Baker among the elite of NFL safeties, marking the fourth-largest safety contract in league history at $18 million annually. This substantial investment not only reflects Baker's worth but also the Cardinals' commitment to keeping their defensive anchor in Arizona for the foreseeable future. Baker's previous contract, signed in 2020, was a four-year agreement valued at $59 million and carried an average annual value of $14.2 million.
A Rise Through the Ranks
Since being selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Cardinals, Baker has steadily risen through the ranks to become a lynchpin in the team’s defensive strategy. This season, Baker has recorded 142 tackles, the second-highest in his career and currently the second-most in the league. His consistently stellar performances have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his three All-Pro selections and six appearances in the Pro Bowl.
Commitment and Passion
Baker’s journey and success are rooted in his unwavering work ethic and passion for the game. Speaking over the summer, he encapsulated this mindset: “A lot of people think about the money. Some players might think, 'Contract year, I gotta do extra.' I treat every single year like a contract year. For me, I love this game. I play it at a high level each and every week because of the work I put in each and every week. For me, I'm an honest believer in controlling what I can control and do my job. At the end of the day, everything else will take care of itself.”
These words resonate with a quintessential devotion to the sport, underscoring the perspective that has driven Baker to the upper echelons of professional football. His philosophy contrasts with the often transactional nature of player contracts and negotiations, setting an example for younger players and reinforcing the notion that excellence is a byproduct of consistent effort and dedication.
A Strategic Asset for the Cardinals
For the Cardinals, the decision to extend Baker’s contract is strategic. As a defensive force, he is integral not only for his tackling capabilities but also for his leadership in the locker room and on the field. Baker has proved invaluable in orchestrating the team’s defensive schemes and his presence ensures a seasoned hand guides the Cardinals’ secondary.
The extension is also indicative of the Cardinals’ broader strategy as they look to fortify their squad in a highly competitive league. Baker, with his significant influence, is poised to play a crucial role as Arizona seeks to build a championship-caliber team around its core players.
As the Cardinals continue to battle for prominence in the NFL, retaining a talent like Budda Baker is more than just a roster move; it is a statement of intent. This strategic alignment reflects a franchise committed to excellence, eager to leverage Baker’s talents in pursuit of gridiron glory.
Thus, with his future now secure in Arizona, both Baker and the Cardinals can focus on what lies ahead, united in their pursuit of success on the field.