Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Budda Baker

How Budda Baker built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Budda Baker is a prominent American football safety currently playing for the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL. He was drafted by the Cardinals in 2017 after playing college football at the University of Washington. A highly accomplished player, Baker has earned recognition as a seven-time Pro Bowler and a four-time All-Pro selection, highlighting his consistent excellence and impact on the field.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

2014: Freshman Season at Washington

In 2014, as a true freshman at Washington, Baker started all 14 games and recorded 80 tackles, one interception, and one sack.

2015: All-Pac-12 Conference Selection

In 2015, as a sophomore, Budda Baker started 12 of 13 games and was named All-Pac-12 Conference after recording 49 tackles and two interceptions.

2016: All-American Honors

In 2016, Budda Baker earned consensus All-American honors following the season.

January 3, 2017: Declaration for the NFL Draft

On January 3, 2017, Budda Baker announced his decision to enter the 2017 NFL draft, forgoing his senior season at Washington.

November 19, 2017: First Career Start

On November 19, 2017, Budda Baker earned his first career start for the Cardinals and recorded a season-high 13 combined tackles and his first career sack.

December 19, 2017: Selected for 2018 Pro Bowl

On December 19, 2017, Budda Baker was named to the 2018 Pro Bowl as a special teamer.

2017: Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals

In 2017, Budda Baker was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the NFL draft.

2017: Drafted into the NFL

In 2017, the Arizona Cardinals selected Budda Baker in the second round (36th overall) of the NFL Draft after trading up with the Chicago Bears.

2019: Leads team in tackles, selected to Pro Bowl

In 2019, Budda Baker finished with a half-sack, 147 total tackles, six passes defended, and one forced fumble and was named to his second Pro Bowl.

August 25, 2020: Signs Contract Extension

On August 25, 2020, Budda Baker signed a four-year, $59 million extension with the Cardinals, becoming the highest-paid safety in NFL history at the time.