Budda Baker Secures Lucrative Extension with the Arizona Cardinals
In a testament to his impressive tenure and continued influence on the field, Budda Baker has signed a significant three-year extension with the Arizona Cardinals. This $50 million deal, which guarantees $30 million, cements Baker’s position with the team through 2027. It's a noteworthy affirmation of his impact and legacy with the franchise that drafted him in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
A Milestone Contract in NFL History
Baker's new contract is not only a personal achievement but also a marked moment in NFL history, ranking as the fourth-largest safety contract at $18 million annually. This extension builds upon his previous agreement in 2020, a four-year, $59 million contract, which averaged $14.2 million annually. Baker's escalating value highlights his consistent performance and the esteem with which he is held by the Cardinals organization.
Baker’s On-Field Excellence
The Seattle native has been an indispensable asset for the Cardinals. While his career has been decorated with outstanding achievements—three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances—his on-field contributions tell an even richer story. This season alone, Baker has recorded 142 tackles, marking the second-highest total in his career and placing him as runner-up in the league for tackles, a testament to his tenacity and resilience.
Commitment Beyond the Contract
For Baker, the game is more than contracts and numbers. As he expressed over the summer, “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 statement encapsulates Baker's ethos—his commitment goes beyond the financial implications of his contracts, reflecting a genuine passion for football that is evident in his performance.
The Future with the Cardinals
With this new deal, the Cardinals have strategically secured a player who is not only crucial to their defensive lineup but also embodies leadership both on and off the field. As the team looks ahead, Baker will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role, leading by example and driving the Cardinals toward success. His dedication to the sport and his team speaks volumes, and his new contract ensures that his journey with the Cardinals will continue to be a significant one.
Baker's extension is more than just a transactional agreement—it's a reinforcement of mutual respect and a shared vision for the future. In Baker, the Cardinals see not only a defensive powerhouse but a player whose dedication and work ethic elevate the team as a whole. With Budda Baker locked in for the foreseeable future, Arizona has its sights set on building a formidable defense around its invaluable safety.