Eagles Trade for Budda Baker? Rumors Ignore Huge Obstacle
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Arizona Cardinals star safety Budda Baker requested a trade earlier this offseason, but remains with the team. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles remain without a star safety to complete their elite defense. Could Baker be the answer while helping Philly try to win it all?
An Eagles-Cardinals trade idea that's already been teased around before has now found new life thanks to Bleacher Report. The site released its list of players who need a fresh start and should be traded, including Baker.
Here's the deal for Baker in this scenario: Eagles get: - Budda Baker
Cardinals get: - 2024 fifth-round pick - 2025 third-round pick
"Philadelphia, which has $12.7 million in cap space, wouldn't have to create a ton of space to absorb Baker's $13 million base salary," BR writes. ... while ignoring the fact that Budda doesn't want $13 million. He already makes $13 million. He wants, we are told, to be the highest-paid safety in football history, which means $16 mil APY .. thus part of the reason for his desire to exit the desert.
With five Pro Bowl appearances and two All-Pro selections in his six-year career, Baker's already accomplished more than most at age 27. Adding him to the Eagles would be another huge championship-focused move by Eagles general manager Roseman, especially if it comes at the cost just two lower draft picks.
Plus, Baker has even expressed his respect and possible interest in the Eagles due to his admiration for Philly coach Nick Sirianni.
“Something that I really like is that Eagles coach,” Baker said on Up & Adams in February. “He’s who he is. So, just seeing that is definitely special as a player.”
Baker is a star. In 2022, he posted 111 total tackles, one forced fumble, two interceptions and seven pass breakups in 15 games. Additionally, Baker has a proven football-killer's mentality, and will do whatever it takes on the field. Adding this kind of approach to an Eagles team that is expecting nothing short of a Super Bowl win could be what Philly needs to redeem itself next season. ... if only the problem that keeps getting ignored would go away: The Eagles cannot simply snap their financial fingers and make this blockbuster happen.
You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7
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