At 2-4, the Arizona Cardinals are nearing the point where they might become sellers at the trade deadline, potentially parting with star players like Budda Baker. The Cardinals entered the 2023 season aware that head coach Jonathan Gannon would need time to rebuild a struggling roster. After quarterback Kyler Murray returned from his ACL injury, Arizona opened the season with a rough 1-8 stretch. However, they went 3-5 after Murray rejoined the lineup, sparking some optimism for 2024, especially with a healthy Murray and first-round pick Marvin Harrison Jr.
Despite offensive improvements, Arizona’s defense has struggled, ranking 27th in points allowed entering Week 7. General Manager Monti Ossenfort confirmed that trade discussions are underway, and if the season continues to decline, moving an aging veteran like Budda Baker becomes plausible. A six-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-Team All-Pro, Baker remains a strong starter who could attract interest from teams like the Baltimore Ravens or New Orleans Saints.
Ossenfort commented, “A lot of conversations happen around the league before the trade deadline… We’ll weigh if a deal makes sense for us, considering the cost of making or not making the trade.”
Cardinals could potentially send Baker to the Ravens or Saints
After losing Geno Stone to the Bengals, the Ravens took a chance on former Bears safety Eddie Jackson, but it hasn’t panned out. Jackson, once a standout, has not performed as expected, and Baltimore, which relies heavily on a three-safety scheme, may look to trade for Budda Baker to stabilize the position. While Baker isn’t in his prime, he still has more to offer than Jackson. With Baltimore’s defense not playing up to its usual standard, Baker’s addition could bolster the defense alongside safeties Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams.
Could the Saints turn to Baker?
Following a 2-0 start, the injury-plagued Saints dropped five consecutive games, losing key playmakers. While many teams would accept a rebuilding year, General Manager Mickey Loomis remains committed to winning now. The Saints may consider trading for Budda Baker to strengthen their defense. Safety Tyrann Mathieu is dealing with a forearm injury, and adding Baker would help reduce Mathieu’s workload, especially in run defense, keeping him healthier and more effective throughout the season.
