Budda Baker's dedication to the Arizona Cardinals is now etched in stone with a three-year contract extension that will keep him with the team through 2027. Valued at $50 million, with $30 million guaranteed, this deal not only underscores the Cardinals' confidence in Baker but also ranks as the fourth-largest safety contract in NFL history, with an annual average of $18 million.
Reflecting on Baker's journey, it's clear this agreement is not only about financial commitments but a testament to his relentless work ethic and consistent on-field excellence. Drafted by the Cardinals in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Baker has since transformed into a cornerstone of their defense. His remarkable on-field performances include notching 142 tackles this season alone, the second-highest tally in both his career and the league, underscoring his influence and capability as a leader in the Cardinals' defensive lineup.
A Proven Track Record
Baker's football resume boasts a list of achievements that few can rival. With three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances, he has proven his mettle at the highest levels of the sport. These accolades not only highlight his individual prowess but his ability to elevate the entire defense alongside him, forming an integral part of what has been a formidable defensive unit for Arizona.
Prior to this latest extension, Baker was working off a four-year, $59 million deal penned in 2020, which averaged $14.2 million per year. The enhancement in his contract not only reflects inflationary market values for safeties but Baker's continued impact on the field. His dedication is mirrored in his own 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," Baker shared over the summer. His words resonate with the spirit of an athlete who plays out of passion and not merely for financial gain.
The Cardinals' Vision
For the Cardinals, securing Baker long-term goes beyond just numbers and statistics. Despite the business-first nature of the NFL, Baker is more than just a player; he's a leader, a source of inspiration, and a dependable performer who embodies the Cardinals' ethos. This has been a season of strategic investments for the franchise, and Baker's extension is a clear indicator of building around proven talent as they aim to solidify their standing in the league.
The investment in Baker represents the Cardinals' philosophy to blend star power with consistent performers. Not only does he serve as an example to younger teammates, but his contract also sends a message to the league about the kind of team Arizona has and aspires to be—one that values dedication and performance.
A Bright Future
While the extension assures Baker's presence on the field through 2027, the implications are far-reaching. His ability to play "at a high level each and every week" as he commits himself to the game, translates into the Cardinals' hopes for consistency and success in forthcoming seasons. For fans, knowing their defense will continue to benefit from Baker's prowess is reassuring.
Baker's approach is simple and clear: "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." His principles echo through the ranks, demonstrating that while contracts bind players to teams, the personal drive and passion for the game are what truly define a player's legacy. Budda Baker is not just securing his future financially; he is cementing his role as the heart and soul of the Arizona Cardinals.