Budda Baker Gets Well-Earned Extension With Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals have finalized a significant deal with their standout safety, Budda Baker, securing him with a three-year contract extension that will extend through the 2027 season. This lucrative extension is valued at an impressive $54 million, with a substantial $30 million of that total guaranteed, heavily underscoring the team's commitment to retaining one of its most valuable players. At 28 years old, Baker has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of the Cardinals' defense, dedicating his entire NFL career to the franchise since they selected him as a second-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. His exceptional skill set, characterized by sharp physicality and elite ball skills, combined with his leadership on the field, allows him to influence the game dynamically—most notably through his ability to create turnovers and disrupt opposing offenses.

This season alone, he has delivered another great performance, recording 142 tackles, nine tackles for loss, two sacks, and three passes defended. These statistics not only highlight his diversity as a player but also reflect his pivotal role within the team’s defensive scheme. Over the course of his career in Arizona, Baker has amassed a total of 879 tackles, nine interceptions, and 7.5 sacks, illustrating his consistency as a top performer in one of football’s most challenging positions.

This contract extension not only reinforces Baker's importance within the organization but also sets the stage for him to continue making a significant impact in the years to come. As the Cardinals look to build on their successes and strive for greater achievements in the league, Baker's presence is expected to be instrumental in guiding this team and its defense forward into what Cardinals fans hope can be a Super Bowl contender.