NFL teams aiming to improve their secondary before the 2024 season should reach out to the Arizona Cardinals about acquiring Pro Bowl safety Budda Baker.
Last year, Budda Baker requested either a trade or a contract making him the highest-paid safety, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Baker and the Cardinals settled on a new deal that included incentives and a pay raise.
Now 28, Baker is in the final year of his contract. With Arizona in the midst of a retooling phase, it makes strategic sense for GM Monti Ossenfort to trade Baker rather than lose him for nothing in free agency next year.
If Baker becomes available, many teams would be interested in the six-time Pro Bowler. One team that should be particularly motivated to make a move for Baker is the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Jacksonville’s pass defense ranked 26th last season, allowing 239.8 yards per game. With many elite quarterbacks in the AFC, the Jaguars need another standout player in their secondary.
Budda Baker is renowned for his ball-hawking abilities, with 34 pass breakups and seven interceptions in his career. The Jaguars have not had a defensive back of Baker’s caliber since Jalen Ramsey, who last played for them in 2019.
What the Jaguars Should Offer for Budda Baker
The Jaguars still have quarterback Trevor Lawrence, running back Travis Etienne Jr., and linebacker Travon Walker on their rookie contracts. Their competitive window is open, making it an ideal time for GM Trent Baalke to execute a significant trade.
Jacksonville should offer the Cardinals at least a 2025 third-round draft pick for Baker. If Baker agrees to an extension as part of the trade, the Jaguars could include an additional mid or late-round pick.
