The Arizona Cardinals have solidified their defensive lineup by agreeing to a three-year contract extension with standout safety Budda Baker, valued at $50 million. This lucrative deal propels Baker into the upper echelon of NFL contracts, marking it as the fourth-largest for a safety in league history at an annual average of $18 million. Furthermore, $30 million of the contract is guaranteed, providing financial security and a testament to the Cardinals' confidence in Baker's abilities.
Selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Cardinals, Baker has been an indispensable asset to the team. Over the years, his performance on the field has been nothing short of extraordinary, evidenced by his impressive tally of 142 tackles this season. This feat stands as the second-highest of his career and positions him second in the league. Baker’s defensive prowess and relentless work ethic play a crucial role in his consistent performance, recognized by his three All-Pro selections and six appearances at the Pro Bowl.
Commitment to Excellence
In a sport where statistics often drive contract negotiations, Baker has maintained a perspective focused on passion and determination. Reflecting on his approach, he remarked, “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.”
This philosophy has undoubtedly contributed to Baker's status as a cornerstone of Arizona’s defense. His dedication to the game and continual improvement exemplify the culture that teams aspire to instill in their locker rooms. Such a mindset makes Baker not just a player worth his contract but a valuable leader by example on and off the field.
A Continuation of Success
Before securing this latest extension, Baker had already established himself as a key figure in the Cardinals’ defensive strategy. He inked a four-year, $59 million deal in 2020, which averaged $14.2 million annually. The new contract is a significant upgrade, both in duration and financial terms, reaffirming the Cardinals’ commitment to building a team capable of competing at the highest levels.
The negotiation of this extension underscores the Cardinals' intent to build their defense around Baker's skill set. By extending his contract through 2027, they not only secure Baker's talents for the immediate future but also set a clear directive for continuity and stability within the team’s defensive strategy.
Looking Forward
As the Cardinals and Baker look forward to the upcoming seasons, this contract extension serves as both a reward for Baker's past contributions and an investment in his future potential. His history of high performance and leadership both in practice and on the field promises continued excellence. The guarantee of $30 million in his contract reflects his role as a pivotal player in the Cardinals’ long-term plans.
Baker’s career trajectory illustrates a commitment that extends beyond mere statistics and into the realm of influence and legacy. As the Cardinals set their sights on future successes, Budda Baker stands as a testament to the blend of talent, passion, and perseverance necessary to excel at the highest level of professional football.