Budda Baker Secures Future with Arizona Cardinals
In a move that cements his importance to the Arizona Cardinals, Budda Baker has agreed to a three-year contract extension valued at $50 million. This deal not only reflects Baker's talent and leadership on the field but also showcases the Cardinals' commitment to one of their cornerstone defensive players. With $30 million of the contract guaranteed, Baker's presence in Arizona is set through the 2027 NFL season.
Budda Baker's journey with the Cardinals began when he was selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Over the years, Baker has established himself as an indispensable part of the Cardinals’ defensive unit. This new contract is not just a financial reward but an acknowledgment of his unwavering dedication and remarkable athletic performances.
Setting Milestones
Throughout his career with the Cardinals, Baker has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the field. In the current season, he has recorded 142 tackles, a number that stands as the second-highest in his career and the second-most in the league. His ability to perform at such a high level, week in and week out, is a testament to his work ethic and passion for the game.
Previously, in 2020, Baker signed a four-year deal worth $59 million, averaging $14.2 million annually. This extension is significant as it elevates Baker's new contract to become the fourth-largest safety contract in NFL history, with an average of $18 million per year. This financial acknowledgment places Baker among the elite safeties in the league.
Hallmarks of Consistency
Baker’s accolades further underscore his impact on the field. With three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances, his contributions have not gone unnoticed. These honors highlight his status as one of the NFL's most formidable safeties, a reputation he's earned through dedication and consistent performance.
For Baker, each season is an opportunity to demonstrate his love for the sport. “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,” Baker remarked over the summer. This mindset reflects his personal philosophy and approach to football, focusing on controlling what he can and consistently doing his job well.
A Future with the Cardinals
The decision to extend Baker's contract is a strategic one for the Arizona Cardinals. As they continue to build a team capable of competing at the highest level, retaining players like Baker, who bring not just skill but also leadership, is crucial. His presence in the locker room, coupled with his on-field exploits, makes him a vital asset to the team’s long-term aspirations.
Baker's extension is a reflection of mutual confidence between the player and the organization. It signals the Cardinals' trust in Baker's ability to anchor their defense for years to come, as they aim to compete for championships. For Baker, it’s an opportunity to further etch his name into the legacy of the franchise — a prospect as invigorating as it is challenging.
As the Arizona Cardinals look towards the future, Budda Baker stands ready to continue his journey, leading by example and proving that his dedication and passion for football are as robust as ever. With both team and player aligned in their goals, the partnership promises to be one of strategic success and, hopefully, spectacular achievements on the gridiron.