GLENDALE — As the NFL trade deadline gets closer, one NFL insider doesn't believe Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker will be on the move out of the Valley.
Oct 11, 2026; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker (3) sacks Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) during the first quarter at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
For the last several weeks, several key pieces from the Cardinals' squad have been linked to trade speculation following the team's uneven season. Along with Baker, many have pointed to Josh Sweat and Jacoby Brissett as names that could find themselves with new squads before the deadline.
However, it seems like Arizona might not be ready to move on from one of its longtime defensive leaders.
Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show , NFL insider Adam Schefter expressed doubts that the Cardinals would trade Baker despite their record.
"Budda Baker, Arizona, that guy's been such a stud," Schefter said. "I don't know if Budda Baker's going to be traded. I don't think Arizona wants to move on from a guy who's meant so much to that franchise. He's such a baller."
Baker has been one of the league's most consistent safeties, currently at 51 tackles, 3.5 sacks, four passes defensed and one interception through eight games this season. He's been with the Cardinals since 2017, playing his entire 10-year NFL career in Arizona. He's also earned eight Pro Bowl selections and four All-Pro honors throughout his career.
Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker (3) celebrates a defensive stop against the Seattle Seahawks at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Sept. 25, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
While draft picks and addressing other needs may be more valuable in the long term, moving on from a player who has spent 10 seasons in the organization may not be something Arizona wants to do. After all, Baker has established himself as one of the franchise's most recognizable defensive leaders and remains a key contributor.
That doesn't mean it can't happen. The Cardinals have already moved on from their former No. 4 overall pick Marvin Harrison Jr., trading him to the Houston Texans for draft capital. Arizona could continue that approach as it looks to bolster its group in other areas.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker (3) leaves the field after defeating the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Now sitting at 3-5, this next game against the Seattle Seahawks on Nov. 8 could be important. With the trade deadline falling on Nov. 10, Arizona will have a decision to make about whether to hold on to its veteran core or continue prioritizing the future.
