In a significant move that underscores their commitment to maintaining one of the premier defensive talents in the league, the Arizona Cardinals have finalized a lucrative three-year contract extension with standout safety Budda Baker. The agreement, valued at a substantial $50 million, is highlighted by $30 million guaranteed and ensures Baker's presence in Arizona through the 2027 season.
Budda Baker's new contract positions him as a player of paramount importance within the Cardinals organization, marking it as the fourth-largest contract for a safety in NFL history, averaging $18 million annually. This financial commitment from the Cardinals not only reflects Baker's tremendous on-field prowess but also their trust in his leadership and consistency. Drafted in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Baker has consistently proven himself as an indispensable asset to the team.
This extension is yet another milestone in Baker's impressive career, which already boasts three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances. His performance this season alone, with 142 tackles, ranks as the second-highest in his career and the second-most in the league, underscoring his continual impact on the field.
Previously, Baker secured a four-year deal in 2020 worth $59 million, averaging $14.2 million annually. The recent contract not only boosts his earnings significantly but also solidifies his status as one of the top defensive players in the league. This progression in his career earnings reflects the evolving market for skilled defensive backs and Baker's rising profile in the NFL.
Baker's approach to the game extends beyond monetary gain. Over the summer, Baker articulated his philosophy, "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 capture the essence of a player driven by passion and dedication, qualities that undoubtedly contributed to the Cardinals' decision to secure his services with such a robust contract. Baker's perspective on how he approaches each season reflects a mature understanding of the professional sports landscape, where a focus on consistent performance ultimately determines success and longevity.
The Cardinals' decision to extend Baker's contract comes at a crucial time as they look to solidify their defensive lineup for the future. With Baker at the heart of their defensive strategies, the team aims to build upon recent performances and strive for greater achievements in the seasons to come.
Baker's extension not only ensures stability for the Cardinals' defense but also sends a message to the rest of the league: Arizona is committed to fostering and retaining elite talent. His continued presence is expected to inspire teammates and contribute significantly to the Cardinals' overall competitiveness.
As Baker prepares for the upcoming seasons with Arizona, both fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how his role evolves and how his leadership and skills translate to success on the field. With the confidence of a new contract and the unwavering support of the Cardinals organization, Budda Baker is poised to continue making headlines and solidifying his legacy in the NFL.