Budda Baker Secures Long-Term Deal with Arizona Cardinals
From Demands to Deals
In an era where trade requests and contract stand-offs seem to be the norm, Budda Baker is bucking the trend by committing to a future with the Arizona Cardinals. Two years ago, Baker was at a crossroads, uncertain about his place in Arizona. Having either an extension or a change of scenery in mind, he let the Cardinals know his wishes. Fast forward to today, and it's clear the two parties have found common ground with a lucrative agreement.
Announced just this Wednesday, Baker and the Cardinals have come to terms on a three-year extension valued at a hefty $50 million, with a solid $30 million guaranteed. This pact solidifies Baker's role with the team through 2027. Not only does this deal bring stability for the player and the franchise, but it also marks the fourth-largest safety contract in NFL history, at $18 million a year.
A Fruitful History in Arizona
Baker's journey with the Cardinals began when he was selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Over the years, he has evolved into a pivotal defensive asset, accumulating accolades and impressive statistics along the way. At 28 years of age, Baker continues to demonstrate his prowess on the field. This season alone, he has recorded 142 tackles, the second-highest in his career and the second-most in the league, paired with a couple of sacks to his credit.
His commitment to the game and to Arizona has been richly rewarded. Before this latest extension, Baker signed a four-year, $59 million deal back in 2020, which annually averaged $14.2 million. Clearly, his stock has risen, as has his paycheck.
The Passion and Mindset of Budda Baker
But for Baker, it's not all about the numbers on the paycheck. He has made it abundantly clear that his passion for the sport drives him. “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," Baker shared over the summer. "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.”
Baker’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. With achievements including three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances, his resume speaks volumes. More than just a player, Baker represents a leader and a cornerstone for the Cardinals moving forward.
A Bright Future in the Desert
With this new deal in place, both Baker and the Cardinals can look to the future with optimism and a sense of stability. As Baker continues to excel on the field, the Cardinals appear poised to benefit immensely from their investment, maintaining one of the league's top defensive talents right in the heart of their roster.
As the new chapter unfolds, one thing is certain: Budda Baker’s name will remain synonymous with Arizona football for years to come, and fans can expect to see him in his signature No. 32 jersey, making game-changing plays on Sundays.