The Arizona Cardinals find themselves in a familiar position as trade speculation surrounds star safety Budda Baker. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, the question looms large: will the Cardinals extend their defensive leader or risk losing him for nothing?
A Contract Standoff and Lingering Trade Rumors
This isn’t the first time Baker’s future in Arizona has been uncertain. Last offseason, he requested a trade amidst contract negotiations. While the Cardinals restructured his deal to provide more guaranteed money, it wasn’t the long-term extension many anticipated.
The lack of a new contract fuels speculation, especially considering Baker’s importance to the team. He’s been the heart and soul of the Cardinals’ defense, a consistent playmaker, and a respected leader. Letting a player of his caliber walk away for free would be a significant blow.
ESPN’s Take: Baker Among Top Trade Candidates
ESPN NFL insider Dan Graziano added fuel to the fire by listing Baker as one of his top 15 trade candidates for the upcoming season. Graziano acknowledges the challenges of trading a player with Baker’s salary but believes the Cardinals would be forced to consider it if they fall out of playoff contention.
“Unsigned beyond this season, Baker would be an impact player for any team needing safety help at the deadline,” Graziano wrote. “He has 18 tackles, three tackles for loss and a pass breakup over two games. The Cardinals would have to be out of contention to consider it, and Baker’s $14.2 million salary wouldn’t be a piece of cake to move. But unless the Cards extend him at some point, you have to think they’d take the call.”
Potential Landing Spots: Eagles, Jets, and Browns
Graziano points to the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Cleveland Browns as potential landing spots for Baker. The Eagles, known for their aggressive approach to the trade deadline, are always looking to bolster their secondary. The Jets, with Super Bowl aspirations, could use a veteran presence like Baker to solidify their defense. The Browns, familiar with Baker from his college days at the University of Washington, might see him as a missing piece in their defensive backfield.
The Cardinals’ Dilemma: To Trade or Not to Trade
The Cardinals face a difficult decision. Trading Baker would bring back valuable assets but weaken their defense significantly. Keeping him, on the other hand, risks losing him for nothing in free agency.
General manager Monti Ossenfort has stated that the Cardinals aren’t operating under any hard deadlines for contract negotiations. However, until a new deal is reached, the trade rumors surrounding Budda Baker will persist. The Cardinals’ performance in the coming weeks could very well determine Baker’s fate in Arizona.
