Budda Baker’s contract situation is becoming a key storyline for the Arizona Cardinals as they enter the second week of training camp. The six-time Pro Bowl and two-time First Team All-Pro safety is set to hit free agency after this season unless an extension is signed. Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort recently discussed the matter on the Arizona Sports radio show Wolf and Luke.
When asked by Luke Lapinski if there is an extra sense of urgency to finalize a deal before March, Ossenfort responded:
“I think that’s a case-by-case basis on how that goes. We’ve had discussions with Budda the past couple years. We’re happy that we have Budda, and we’ll see what that means going forward. Budda represents everything that we want this team to be about, and we’re excited to see how it goes right now.”
Baker remained tight-lipped about the negotiations when asked on Friday, stating that his focus is on controlling what he can, playing great football, and winning games this season. Based on Ossenfort’s noncommittal response, it appears unlikely that an extension will be completed before the season starts. Baker is not overly concerned about his contract status, confident that his performance will ensure things fall into place.
Recognizing the importance of this season for both himself and the Cardinals, Baker addressed the team the night before their first practice, emphasizing his disdain for losing. His passion and leadership were vividly displayed during a fiery postgame speech aired on Hard Knocks following a 20-17 loss to the eventual NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles in 2022. This fiery demeanor has helped him earn team captain status for each of the past four seasons.
“Budda’s attitude has been fantastic ever since we got here,” Ossenfort said. “The way that he leads, the way he prepares, the way he goes about his business. It really shone on the first night of our first meeting when he addressed the entire team and shared his sentiments. It was a great message for the team and everyone in the room.”
Head coach Jonathan Gannon echoed similar sentiments during a media presser before the first practice.
“He’s everything we’re about. He practices the right way, he prepares the right way. You should hear him in meetings. He asks a ton of questions when he knows the answer, but he’s probably asking because his buddy doesn’t want to ask. He’s a phenomenal person and a phenomenal player, so I’m glad No. 3 is with us and he’s going to play a big part in what we do this season.”
A strong season from Baker will benefit both the Cardinals and his future prospects. If a deal cannot be reached before the season, the franchise tag remains an option to keep him in Arizona for 2025 and possibly beyond.
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