Budda Baker, widely recognized for his ferocity on the field and commitment to the game, has reaffirmed his long-term future with the Arizona Cardinals through a significant three-year contract extension. This new deal, valued at $50 million and bolstered by $30 million in guarantees, will solidify Baker’s invaluable role in the Cardinals' defense through the 2027 season.
A Lucrative Deal
This extension comes as a testament to Baker's outstanding impact since joining the league. Notably, this contract positions itself as the fourth-largest safety contract in NFL history, offering an average annual salary of $18 million. This financial commitment by the Cardinals underlines their confidence in Baker's abilities and leadership, both on and off the field.
Having previously inked a four-year, $59 million deal back in 2020, Baker’s earning trajectory aligns with his performance and stature within the league. His previous contract offered him $14.2 million annually, marking a substantial increase to his current earnings, indicative of his rising value.
Impactful Performance
Baker's journey to becoming one of the premier safeties in the NFL began when the Cardinals drafted him in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Since then, Baker has consistently displayed exceptional talent and has been a cornerstone of the Cardinals' defensive unit. Just this season, he amassed an impressive 142 tackles, his second-highest tally to date and the second-most across the league, demonstrating his relentless pursuit on the field.
His football acumen and relentless drive have not gone unnoticed, as Baker has been honored with three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances. These accolades highlight his consistent performance and the respect he commands from his peers and analysts alike.
Baker's Philosophy on the Game
Beyond statistics and financial figures, Baker’s approach to the game underscores his professional ethos. Reflecting over the summer, Baker shared insights into his mindset: “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 candid reflection offers a glimpse into the identity of a player who consistently prioritizes team success and personal growth over individual accolades or financial gains. Such perspectives have undoubtedly contributed to his reputation as a leader within the Cardinals’ locker room.
As the Cardinals prepare for the seasons ahead, Baker's presence will be pivotal not only in terms of on-field performance but also as a mentor and motivator for the younger talents on the roster. His dedication to the sport and the team is evident, promising a legacy that could well extend beyond the tenure of his new contract.
For the Arizona Cardinals and their fans, the commitment to Budda Baker reflects more than just an investment in a player; it is a commitment to a football philosophy that emphasizes consistency, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.