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.
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.
2021: Number change and Pro Bowl nomination
In 2021, Budda Baker changed his jersey number from 32 to 3 and earned his fourth Pro Bowl nomination.
December 17, 2024: Signs Contract Extension with Cardinals
On December 17, 2024, Budda Baker signed a three-year contract extension with the Cardinals through the 2027 season.