Cardinals Glad to See 'Warrior' Budda Baker Return

The Arizona Cardinals weren't able to snag a victory in Week 7's loss against the Seattle Seahawks, though they did see the return of All-Pro safety Budda Baker.

Baker came off injured reserve after missing the previous four games with a knee injury and made an immediate impact, accruing a team-high six tackles and one TFL in the 20-10 loss.

“Got to run a little bit you know. It felt good," Baker told reporters following the game. Baker was initially expected to miss six weeks or more.

It was especially important for Baker to play in front of his home crowd as a Washington native. He said he had 12 family members at Lumen Field to watch his return.

“In front of the home crowd. In front of some family and friends, so it was real special to be back," said Baker.

“For me it was very important. Of course, being in my hometown it was very special to me. I usually do a routine to go see my big brother who is resting in peace. So usually land in Seattle then go see him and come for the game the next day. It’s very special for me.”

It was an overall tough day for the Cardinals defense, who have allowed at least 20 points in what's now been four consecutive games.

Despite the loss, Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon didn't want his presence to go unnoticed.

"Thought he looked good. Coming back from the injury that he had as quick as he did, I mean, he's a warrior, man, and it's good to have him out there. Made some good plays in there today, but he definitely helps us out as a team and a unit," Gannon said postgame.

The Cardinals have been fairly banged up over the last few weeks but are slowly getting healthy. It's tough to ask Baker to mask all the shortcomings in the desert, but there's no denying Arizona is a far different unit with No. 3 on the field.