Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker signs a lucrative contract extension, solidifying his place as one of the highest-paid players at his position in NFL history.

Why it matters: The extension highlights the Cardinals' commitment to Baker and their recognition of his value as a leader on defense.

• The deal ensures that Baker will remain an integral part of the team's plans for years to come.

What's new: Budda Baker has signed a three-year contract extension worth up to $54 million, with $30 million guaranteed.

• At an average annual salary of $18 million, it ranks as the third-largest contract for a safety in NFL history.

By the numbers: Baker's previous four-year extension made him the highest-paid safety at the time, and the new deal solidifies his status among the elite earners at his position.

• He is a six-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro, showcasing his exceptional skills and impact on the field.

Yes, but: While the financial commitment to Baker is significant, it also reflects the importance of retaining key defensive leaders.

• The Cardinals have recognized Baker's contributions both on and off the field, making him a valuable asset to the team's success.

Quotes:

• Budda Baker: "I treat every single year like a contract year... So, of course, I want to be a Cardinal, but at the end of the day, I understand it's a business."
• Jalen Thompson on Baker: "Big leader... He's just one of those guys that does everything right."

What's next: With Baker's contract extension secured, the Cardinals can focus on building a strong defensive unit around him as they aim for success in the upcoming seasons.

• The team will continue to rely on Baker's leadership and playmaking abilities to anchor their defense.

The bottom line: The Cardinals investment in Budda Baker demonstrates their belief in his abilities and the impact he can make on the team's performance.

• As one of the highest-paid safeties in the league, Baker has the opportunity to further solidify his legacy as a key contributor to the Cardinals' success.

Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker signs a lucrative contract extension, solidifying his place as one of the highest-paid players at his position in NFL history.

Why it matters: The extension highlights the Cardinals' commitment to Baker and their recognition of his value as a leader on defense.

• The deal ensures that Baker will remain an integral part of the team's plans for years to come.

What's new: Budda Baker has signed a three-year contract extension worth up to $54 million, with $30 million guaranteed.

• At an average annual salary of $18 million, it ranks as the third-largest contract for a safety in NFL history.

By the numbers: Baker's previous four-year extension made him the highest-paid safety at the time, and the new deal solidifies his status among the elite earners at his position.

• He is a six-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro, showcasing his exceptional skills and impact on the field.

Yes, but: While the financial commitment to Baker is significant, it also reflects the importance of retaining key defensive leaders.

• The Cardinals have recognized Baker's contributions both on and off the field, making him a valuable asset to the team's success.

Quotes:

• Budda Baker: "I treat every single year like a contract year... So, of course, I want to be a Cardinal, but at the end of the day, I understand it's a business."
• Jalen Thompson on Baker: "Big leader... He's just one of those guys that does everything right."

What's next: With Baker's contract extension secured, the Cardinals can focus on building a strong defensive unit around him as they aim for success in the upcoming seasons.

• The team will continue to rely on Baker's leadership and playmaking abilities to anchor their defense.

The bottom line: The Cardinals investment in Budda Baker demonstrates their belief in his abilities and the impact he can make on the team's performance.

• As one of the highest-paid safeties in the league, Baker has the opportunity to further solidify his legacy as a key contributor to the Cardinals' success.