Budda Baker Solidifies His Future with the Arizona Cardinals
Budda Baker has cemented his place as a cornerstone of the Arizona Cardinals, agreeing to a lucrative three-year extension worth $50 million. This new deal, boasting $30 million guaranteed, not only brings security to Baker but also places him among the top echelons of NFL safeties. Averaging $18 million per year, this contract is now the fourth-largest safety deal in the history of the league.
A Look Back at Baker's Journey
Since being drafted in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Cardinals, Baker has made a significant impact on the field. This season alone, he's recorded 142 tackles, marking it as the second-highest tally of his career and the second-most in the league. Such performances have underscored his value and contributed to the team's decision to secure his presence through 2027.
Prior to this extension, Baker was already under a substantial contract from 2020 — a four-year, $59 million agreement that averaged $14.2 million annually. His consistent performance and dedication have also earned him three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances.
Focusing on Passion Over Paychecks
Budda Baker’s passion for the game transcends the financial windfall of his contracts. Reflecting on his motivations, Baker shared, “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 mindset not only showcases his dedication to football but also highlights his approach of focusing on preparation and effort rather than external pressures.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Baker continues his journey with the Cardinals, fans and pundits alike are eager to see how this next chapter unfolds. With his talent, passion, and now a robust contract under his belt, Budda Baker remains a player to watch as he continues to leave his mark on the NFL landscape.