Budda Baker Secures Major Contract Extension with Arizona Cardinals
In a significant move for both player and franchise, Budda Baker and the Arizona Cardinals have finalized a three-year extension worth $50 million, securing Baker's future with the team through 2027. The agreement will ensure that Baker remains a cornerstone of the Cardinals' defense, thanks to $30 million in guaranteed money.
A Historic Deal
This new contract places Baker among the elite in his position, making it the fourth-largest safety contract in NFL history, averaging $18 million annually. It marks a significant rise from his previous four-year, $59 million deal signed in 2020, which averaged $14.2 million per year. This leap is a testament not only to his value within the Cardinals' organization but also his standing as one of the top safeties in the league today.
Consistent Excellence
Baker's consistent performance on the field has been instrumental in justifying such an investment. Selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Baker has made an indelible mark in the NFL, registering 142 tackles this season alone. This achievement ranks as the second-highest in his career and second-most in the league, underscoring his prowess as a defensive anchor.
Throughout his time with the Cardinals, Baker has racked up an impressive array of accolades, including three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances. His track record speaks volumes about his impact and leadership, both on and off the field.
Baker's Perspective
Reflecting on his approach to the game and his latest extension, Baker shared insights that reveal the mindset that has driven his success: “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.”
His words resonate with his steadfast dedication and the consistency he brings to the field, establishing why the Cardinals have shown such a strong commitment to retaining him at the center of their defense.
Impact on the Cardinals
The decision to secure Baker for the long term reflects the Cardinals' strategy to maintain stability in their defensive lineup. In a league where defensive talent is highly coveted, keeping a player of Baker's caliber helps position the Cardinals as a formidable defense moving forward. His leadership and experience will be pivotal as the team aims to build a competitive roster capable of making deep playoff runs.
The Cardinals have demonstrated a clear understanding of Baker's value, both in terms of his on-field contributions and his role as a mentor and leader. His presence in the locker room continues to be a valuable asset for a team looking to foster a culture of work ethic and excellence.
Looking Forward
As Baker and the Cardinals embark on this new chapter together, the expectations remain high. The team hopes to leverage Baker's talents and experience to fortify their defensive strategies and enhance their performance in future seasons. With Baker locked in, the Cardinals are poised to tackle the challenges of the upcoming years with confidence, backed by their stalwart safety leading the charge.