In a significant move for both player and team, Budda Baker and the Arizona Cardinals have inked a three-year extension worth $50 million. This deal includes $30 million guaranteed, reaffirming Baker’s crucial role on the team through the 2027 season. By securing this contract, Baker now boasts the fourth-largest safety contract in NFL history, averaging $18 million annually.
A second-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2017 NFL Draft, Baker has grown into a cornerstone of the team’s defense. With his relentless work ethic and standout performances, he has rightfully earned this lucrative extension. "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 stated 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."
A Season to Remember
This season, Baker has been a defensive stalwart, recording 142 tackles, which marks the second-highest tally of his career and the second-most in the NFL. His impressive stats reflect his dedication and consistent performance on the field. Such tenacity and impact didn’t go unnoticed and were pivotal in securing his new contract.
Baker’s previous contract, a four-year $59 million deal inked in 2020, had an average annual value of $14.2 million. Compared to the new terms, the increase underscores the Cardinals’ trust in Baker’s talents and leadership qualities. Over the years, Baker has proven himself not only through numbers but also with accolades, achieving three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances. These honors underline his status as one of the premier safeties in the league.
Leadership and Legacy
Baker’s influence extends beyond statistics. His leadership on the field has been integral to the Cardinals’ defensive strategies, often anchoring a unit that has faced formidable opponents. Being a player who epitomizes dependability and excellence, Baker's presence will be indispensable as the Cardinals look to fortify their position in the league.
His approach to football reflects his understanding of the sport's demands and nuances. Baker’s mentality of treating each year as a contract year showcases his unwavering commitment to improvement and success, both personally and for his team. It's this philosophy that continues to drive him, maintaining his status among the elite players in the NFL circuit.
The Arizona Cardinals have not just extended a contract but have secured a key player who embodies the team's ethos. With Baker’s contract extended through 2027, the Cardinals are not only solidifying their defensive ranks but also sustaining continuity and expertise within their roster.
As Baker continues his journey with the Cardinals, fans and teammates alike will look to him to lead by example and inspire the next generation of players. With the upcoming seasons poised for further challenges and opportunities, Budda Baker’s re-signing is a pivotal step forward for the franchise.