Budda Baker Secures Major Extension with Arizona Cardinals
A New Milestone in Baker's Career
In a significant move that underscores his value to the team, Budda Baker and the Arizona Cardinals have agreed to a three-year contract extension worth a staggering $50 million. This deal not only secures Baker's position with the team until 2027 but also makes a notable mark in the history of NFL safety contracts. At $18 million a year, this extension is the fourth-largest ever for a safety in the league.
Commitment and Consistency Pay Off
The agreement, which includes $30 million guaranteed, reflects the mutual trust and respect between Baker and the Cardinals. It's worth noting that before this lucrative contract, Baker was operating under a four-year, $59 million deal signed back in 2020, which averaged $14.2 million annually. His consistent performance on the field, however, has certainly warranted this new agreement.
Baker's dedication to the game is evident not just in his contract negotiations but also in his impressive stats. This season alone, he has recorded 142 tackles, making it the second-highest season in his career and the second-most in the league. Such numbers underscore his impact on the field and his crucial role in the Cardinals' defensive strategy.
An Impressive Track Record with the Cardinals
Selected by the Cardinals in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Budda Baker has become an integral part of the team's defense. Along the way, he has earned three All-Pro selections and appeared in six Pro Bowls, reflecting his excellence and stature in the game.
In Baker's own words, “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.” These words encapsulate his relentless work ethic and focus, qualities that have clearly paid off.
Future Prospects and Team Dynamics
With this new contract, both Baker and the Cardinals aim to continue building on their success. The extension not only secures one of the league's top safeties for the next few years but also provides a sense of stability and direction for the team. Baker’s presence on the defense will remain a cornerstone for the Cardinals as they strive for further success and impact in the NFL.
For Budda Baker, this substantial extension is not just a financial reward but a testament to his hard work and dedication to his craft. It serves as an acknowledgment of his contributions thus far and sets a promising stage for his future endeavors with the Arizona Cardinals.