Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker faced challenges during the 2023 season, as he battled through injury and experienced a dip in his statistical performance compared to previous years. Despite these setbacks, Baker’s impact on the team remained significant, earning him a spot in the Pro Bowl, albeit with acknowledgment that it wasn’t his strongest season in a Cardinals uniform.
In 2023, Baker’s season was abbreviated to 12 games due to a hamstring injury that sidelined him for four weeks, marking the shortest stint in his seven-year tenure with the Cardinals. His performance on the field reflected this disruption, with his 87 combined tackles being the second-lowest of his career. Notably, he failed to record any interceptions despite being targeted 30 times throughout the season.
While Baker’s statistical output may have faltered, he continued to be a crucial component of the Cardinals’ defensive strategy under coaches Jonathan Gannon and Nick Rallis. Despite mixed opinions within the fanbase and media regarding his ranking among the league’s top safeties, Baker’s contributions were recognized by his peers and coaches alike.
However, not everyone shares the same sentiment regarding Baker’s standing in the league. CBS Sports notably excluded him from their top ten safety rankings for the upcoming 2024 season, placing him at number eleven. Analyst Jared Dubin highlighted Baker’s unconventional playing style, praising his aggressive approach both against the run and in pass coverage. Despite playing on a defense that struggled in various metrics, Baker maintained a low missed tackle rate and limited completion rate when targeted.
Dubin’s assessment underscores the potential for Baker to excel further with a bolstered defensive lineup around him. As the Cardinals look to improve their defensive unit through the draft and free agency, the hope is to provide Baker with additional support to enhance his overall performance.
Baker’s ranking outside the top ten by CBS Sports places him behind notable players such as Antoine Winfield, Kyle Hamilton, and Minkah Fitzpatrick, among others. Despite this, there is consensus that Baker remains a top-tier player at his position, even amidst a season marked by statistical decline.
Approaching the 2024 season, Baker remains focused on his performance rather than contract negotiations, as he enters a crucial contract year. Expressing his dedication to the game, Baker emphasized his commitment to maintaining a high level of play each week, regardless of external circumstances. His approach reflects a mindset centered on personal accountability and team contribution, aligning with his belief that focusing on his responsibilities will naturally lead to positive outcomes.
Looking ahead, the Cardinals prepare for the upcoming training camp with Baker poised to reclaim his dominant form on the field. As he navigates the challenges of a contract year and strives to regain peak performance, Baker’s resilience and determination serve as pillars of strength for the team.
In conclusion, while Baker faced adversity during the 2023 season, his impact on the Cardinals’ defense and his reputation as a top safety remain intact. With optimism surrounding his potential for resurgence in the upcoming season, Baker’s journey continues to be closely monitored by fans, analysts, and the league alike.
