PHX Reporter

Budda Baker experienced a significant day on Wednesday, marked by the signing of a three-year contract extension with the Arizona Cardinals and being named one of eight finalists for the NFL's Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award. Despite these achievements, Baker values each day as special due to personal experiences, including his first tattoo that reads "Each Day Is Not Promised," inspired by his older brother's incarceration and subsequent murder.

Baker’s new contract guarantees him $30 million through the 2027 season. However, he remains focused on upcoming games, noting, "I still gotta watch what Bryce Young likes to do in the quick game." Previously, there was speculation about Baker's future with the Cardinals and potential trade talks. Yet, his relationship with coach Jonathan Gannon strengthened over time. General Manager Monti Ossenfort remained silent about any trade plans involving Baker.

With three regular-season games remaining, Baker is not concerned about free agency but rather what it would mean to spend his entire career with one team. "Not a lot of players can say they have done that," he stated. The Cardinals have extended contracts for several key players recently, reinforcing their long-term strategy.

Quarterback Kyler Murray commented on this approach: "I think we're on the right track having the young guys play longer here." Baker is close to setting a personal record in tackles this season and attributes part of his success to defensive coordinator Nick Rallis' scheme.

Baker's conduct has earned him recognition as a finalist for the Rooney Award for sportsmanship qualities like fair play and integrity. Other finalists include notable NFL players such as Josh Allen and Khalil Mack.

Cardinals rookie Darius Robinson praised Baker: "He's the best player, leader, teammate." Coach Gannon expressed satisfaction with retaining Baker: "Budda wanted to be here and that's really cool."

Having grown up under Seattle skies before moving to Arizona, Baker now considers himself an Arizonan. He appreciates the support from fans known as the Bird Gang: "It's special coming to the stadium and seeing the fans come out."