Budda Baker Ranked as Top Safety by NFL Execs, Scouts
Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker is hoping for a new contract, and thus his status for the 2023 season is still remotely questionable (though he did say he would appear at training camp).
There's questions as to Baker's standing with the Cardinals and how his situation will ultimately unfold, but there's no questioning how the rest of the league views him.
Baker is often a borderline top five safety, depending on the rankings for various sites. However in ESPN's recent poll that involved input from NFL scouts, coaches and executives, Baker was ranked as the No. 4 safety in the league.
Budda Baker Ranked as Top Safety by NFL Execs, Scouts
Baker - in the various lists - ranked as high as No. 1 and as low as No. 10. He ultimately fell behind Minkah Fitzpatrick, Derwin James and Justin Simmons.
ESPN's full write-up:
"Scouts and coaches have applauded Baker's physicality and explosiveness. That admiration has only grown with a third consecutive top-five ranking.
"Last season was emblematic of the Baker experience -- he suffered ankle and shoulder injuries but still gutted out 15 games while producing seven pass deflections, 111 tackles and a Pro Bowl nod.
"Baker, who has around $27.3 million in non-guaranteed money due over the next seasons, has requested a trade from Arizona and seeks a new deal commensurate with his skill set.
"'That guy won't be going anywhere,' one NFL executive -- whose team would love to have a player such as Baker -- said. 'That's the last guy you trade. A true difference-maker.'
"He can play safety, outside linebacker, slot corner or edge defender -- at 5-foot-10. And he has improved his pass coverage, with a 19.4% ball hawk rate last year.
"'You can do so many things with him, and oh yeah, he's going to hit with the best of him,' an NFC scout said. 'He's a missile.'
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