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Dec 15, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker (3) celebrates a turnover with teammates against the New England Patriots at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
GLENDALE – One defensive star from the Arizona Cardinals found his way on an elite list, as Budda Baker was selected as the No. 75 player in the NFL Top 100 for the 2026 season. This isn’t simply another accolade. It’s validation from the people who know the game best, the players who have to line up against him every Sunday.
Statistics tell only part of Baker’s story. Tackles, forced fumbles, pass breakups, and Pro Bowls highlight production, but they don’t capture what opposing offenses feel when he is flying downhill. Baker plays with a combination of speed, timing, toughness, and instincts that few safeties possess. He’s the type of defender offensive coordinators account for before the opening kickoff. The fact that this marks his seventh appearance on the NFL Top 100 speaks to something even more impressive, as he has sustained excellence. In a league where careers change quickly and reputations fade, Baker continues earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
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Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker (1) stretches before they play the New England Patriots at State Farm Stadium on Dec. 15, 2024. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Leadership has become just as valuable as production. As the unquestioned captain of Arizona’s defense, Baker sets the standard in practice, preparation, and effort. Young defenders don’t just hear coaches preach accountability; they watch Baker demonstrate it every day.
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Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona safety Baker (3) against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For Cardinals fans, this recognition carries added significance. It confirms the franchise still has one of football’s premier defensive leaders as it continues building toward contention. National respect follows players who consistently deliver, regardless of market size. Budda Baker isn’t simply one of Arizona’s best players. He’s become one of the defining defensive leaders of his generation, and the NFL continues to recognize exactly why.
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Sep 14, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona safety Baker (3) and defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) celebrate the win against the Carolina Panthers at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Cardinals TE Trey McBride claims ‘there are no fans’ in Arizona – Burn City Sports Phoenix Sports
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
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