Budda Baker Secures Long-Term Future with Cardinals
In a move that underscores their commitment to securing top defensive talent, the Arizona Cardinals and safety Budda Baker have reached an agreement on a lucrative three-year contract extension worth $50 million. This new deal, which provides $30 million in guaranteed money, ensures that Baker remains a central figure in the Cardinals' defensive lineup through 2027.
The contract not only affirms Baker’s importance to the team but also places him among the elite safeties in the league financially. At $18 million annually, this extension now ranks as the fourth-largest safety contract in NFL history, a testament to Baker’s impact on the field. His remarkable consistency and performance, highlighted by 142 tackles this season alone, rank as the second-most in both his career and the league.
Selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Baker has been an essential part of the Cardinals' defense since his arrival. Throughout his tenure in Arizona, he has achieved three All-Pro selections and appeared in six Pro Bowls. Such accolades underscore Baker's prominence and reliability as a defensive stalwart.
In reflecting on his career and approach to the game, Baker shared candid insights during the summer, saying, “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 perspective exemplifies Baker’s focus and dedication that undoubtedly contributed to the Cardinals’ decision to invest heavily in his future.
Baker’s previous contract with the team was a four-year, $59 million deal inked in 2020, which averaged $14.2 million annually. The current extension represents a significant increase, reflecting both the escalating market values for elite safeties and Baker's continued growth and performance on the field.
As the Cardinals look to build a team capable of deep postseason runs, retaining a player of Baker’s caliber is a critical piece of that puzzle. His presence ensures stability and excellence in the team’s defensive unit, qualities essential for success in the highly competitive NFL landscape. With this extension, Arizona has not only retained a proven leader but also reinforced its commitment to maintaining strong defensive foundations anchored by players who lead by example both on and off the field.