At age 28, Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker is entering the prime of his NFL career.
Through five weeks, Baker has already recorded 34 solo tackles, tying him at No. 3 for the most amongst players this season.
“Any team we play against, I don’t like.”
— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) October 3, 2024
Arizona Cardinals S Budda Baker embraces rivalries and has a long history with the 49ers. pic.twitter.com/USDPzpA9sN
There’s a level of physicality emerging on defense with the Cardinals that hasn’t been seen in a while. With rookie defensive lineman Darius Robinson scheduled to return, the Cardinals pass rush may become even more impactful, leading to opportunities for more forced turnovers on the back end with Baker.
DL Darius Robinson’s first day back at #AZCardinals. In open part of practice he didn’t do anything beyond stretch.
— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) October 9, 2024
WR Chris Moore wasn’t out here. OL Kelvin Beachum was on the side. pic.twitter.com/FrOiKNNki5
The Cardinals survived a very physical battle with the San Francisco 49ers in week five, overcoming a 13-point second-half deficit to prevail. Most notable was their ability to force three turnovers; two interceptions, and one fumble.
Baker is the undoubted captain of a Cardinals’ defense looking to turn the tide. Under the leadership of defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, Baker and others are compelled to maintain the competitive drive they have shown thus far in 2024.
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