Budda Baker, the Pro Bowl safety for the Arizona Cardinals, expressed his desire to remain with the team beyond the upcoming NFL trade deadline on Nov. 10. In an interview with ESPN, Baker stated he has not requested a trade nor asked to be held out, and confirmed he hasn't discussed the matter with general manager Monti Ossenfort. “My approach is I’m here. I want to win. I want to be here,” Baker said. While acknowledging that trade rumors have followed him for “five, six years,” the 30-year-old emphasized focusing on the present and helping the team secure a win against the Cowboys. Baker is in his 10th season, all with the Cardinals, and is in the second year of a three-year extension. He has made the Pro Bowl in eight of his first nine seasons and is on pace for his seventh consecutive 100-tackle campaign. This season, he is scheduled to earn $16.17 million. “It’s a business,” Baker said. “I understand at the end of the day.”
Baker has recorded nine career interceptions and 13.5 career sacks, underscoring his impact on both defense and special teams. Despite ongoing speculation, he remains committed to performing at a high level. “Teams are trying to get players, and our team might be trying to get players too,” he noted. “So, at the end of the day, it’s a business.” Baker’s contract runs through the 2027 season, and he continues to approach each week with focus and determination.
The Cardinals, currently navigating a competitive NFC West, will rely on Baker’s leadership and playmaking ability as they face the Cowboys. With the trade deadline looming, all eyes will be on whether the veteran safety remains in Arizona beyond Nov. 10.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing