In a significant move for both player and franchise, Budda Baker and the Arizona Cardinals have secured a three-year extension worth $50 million, a deal that not only underscores Baker's value to the team but also places him among the elite safeties in the NFL. This extension, which includes $30 million guaranteed, ensures Baker's place in the Cardinals' secondary through 2027.
The contract makes Baker's annual earnings average $18 million, ranking as the fourth-largest safety contract in NFL history. For Baker, this represents a testament to his hard work and undeniably high level of performance on the field. Since being selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by Arizona, Baker has steadily ascended the ranks, becoming a stalwart of the Cardinals' defense.
A Season to Remember
This season alone, Baker has recorded 142 tackles, marking the second-highest single-season total in his career and ranking him second in the league. Such numbers highlight not only his reliability but also his indispensable role in the team's defensive strategy. Baker's performance embodies consistency and excellence, qualities that have been acknowledged through his career with three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances.
Reflecting on his approach to gameplay amidst contract negotiations, Baker stated during 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.” His words reflect a philosophy that has evidently paid off, manifesting not just in numbers but in the respect he commands within the league.
Beyond the Numbers
Before this robust extension, Baker was already under a significant contract, having signed a four-year, $59 million deal in 2020, which averaged an annual salary of $14.2 million. However, his recent performance made it clear that an adjustment was warranted, not just to reward his efforts but to ensure his future contributions to the team.
By securing Baker’s services through the 2027 season, the Cardinals not only solidify a key component of their defense but also send a message about their commitment to building a team that combines experience, talent, and leadership. This move could be pivotal in maintaining stability and competitiveness within their division and the league as a whole.
A Leader on and off the Field
Baker's impact transcends statistics; it's rooted in his leadership qualities, work ethic, and the standard he sets for himself and his teammates. His approach to the game, as illustrated by his earlier quote, focuses on personal accountability and relentless effort, attributes that undoubtedly inspire those around him.
The extension is not merely a financial endorsement but a reflection of his intrinsic value to the Cardinals’ organization. As the team moves forward, Baker’s influence will likely play a crucial role in shaping the identity and success of the Cardinals’ defense. His presence on the field has been a source of reassurance, and his attitude serves as a model for aspiring players.
In conclusion, Budda Baker’s new contract with the Arizona Cardinals is more than a mere business transaction. It is an acknowledgment of past achievements and a vote of confidence in the future. As the 2027 season promises to be lined with new challenges and opportunities, both Baker and the Cardinals can face them knowing that they have built a solid foundation for success.