In a significant development for the Arizona Cardinals, star safety Budda Baker has inked a lucrative three-year extension valued at $50 million, ensuring his place with the team through the 2027 season. This extension includes a substantial commitment of $30 million guaranteed, signaling the Cardinals' faith in Baker's continued ability to impact the game.
The freshly signed contract places Baker among the elite safeties in the NFL, marking it as the fourth-largest contract for a safety in league history. With an average annual value of $18 million, Baker's deal underscores his status as one of the top defensive talents in the game today.
Budda Baker's Stellar Journey
Baker's journey in the NFL began when he was selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. Since then, he has steadily carved out a place for himself not just on the team, but in the league as a whole. Baker's prowess on the field is highlighted by his recent performance, with an impressive 142 tackles this season — the second-highest number in his career and ranking him second in the league for this statistic.
Over the years, Baker's consistency and excellence have been acknowledged through multiple accolades, including three All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances. These achievements are a testament to his skill and dedication to his craft, attributes highly valued by the Cardinals' organization.
Financial Commitments and Career Highlights
This recent contract follows on the heels of a four-year, $59 million deal signed by Baker in 2020, which had an annual average value of $14.2 million. The significant increase in Baker's earnings reflects not only his development and contributions but also his integral role in the team's defensive strategy.
Baker's impact as a leader both on and off the field cannot be overstated. His commitment to the game is aptly captured in his 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.”
A Passionate Approach to the Game
His passion for football resonates deeply in his approach, as he further stated: “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.” Baker's philosophy emphasizes focusing on personal effort and excellence, rather than being overshadowed by contract figures.
As Baker and the Cardinals reinforce their partnership, the team looks poised to leverage his talent and leadership as they aim for future success. The extension of a player of Baker's caliber is not just a strategic move but a confirmation of the trust and respect he has earned within the organization.
With this contract securing his future with the Cardinals, Budda Baker continues to be a cornerstone of the franchise. His journey serves as an inspiring narrative of talent, hard work, and an unwavering love for the game, setting a standard not only for his peers but for aspiring athletes across the NFL.