Cardinals Legend Says Team Needs Budda Baker for Rebuild
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The Arizona Cardinals have seen some lofty names depart the organization over the last two years, but none would carry the significance like safety Budda Baker.
Baker is one of the best players in the league - but more importantly operates as the heartbeat of the entire team.
His passion, dedication and commitment to an organization hat frankly has accomplished little since his arrival. Because of those factors, Baker has catapulted himself to status as face of the franchise while also building himself as a fan favorite.
So when news broke that Baker went public with a trade request after not being made the highest-paid safety in the league, fans in the desert were obviously distraught. The Cardinals have endured plenty of change - a vast majority for the better - but losing Baker (27-years-old) would simply be a tough pill to swallow.
Strong offseason moves have some believing the Cardinals could really accelerate their rebuild starting in 2024.
Former Cardinals QB and Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor member Carson Palmer says the team would be wise to keep Baker around during this transition period.
“When you are going through a rebuilding year, new staff and your quarterback is hurt and not ready to play, those guys are instrumental,” Palmer said on 98.7's Arizona Sports.
“You need that leadership, those guys who have been captains and Pro Bowlers in the past. He is the star of that defense. When you’re going through all the turmoil that the organization has gone through thus far, you need guys like Budda Baker.”
Baker has two years left on his contract, none of which carry guaranteed money.
Not paying Baker makes complete sense if you're Arizona - especially with where the team currently sits. However, keeping Baker around to usher in the new era of Cardinals football is also smart business.
Baker himself wasn't there at voluntary OTA's but did say he planned on being at the mandatory activities, which includes mandatory minicamp (June 13) and training camp (late July).
“Oh yeah, of course I’ll be there when it’s time to be there,” Baker said. “When it’s time to be there, I’ll be there smiling and [be] the same regular guy that I am. Just excited to see those guys," Baker told 12 News.
“For me personally, I’m just letting the business aspect handle the business aspect, letting my agent handle all that type of stuff. Just continuing to have tunnel vision on my work ethic, being the best person I can be outside of football and just enjoying life.
"Enjoying this offseason, enjoying working hard each and every day, and just excited to go back and play football again.”
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