Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker has once again proven his elite status in the NFL, earning his seventh career Pro Bowl selection this week. This milestone not only enhances his reputation but also adds a substantial financial incentive to his already lucrative contract.
The 28-year-old, who recently signed a three-year, $54 million extension with the Cardinals, received a $500,000 bonus for making the Pro Bowl, as reported by CBS Sports’ Joel Corry. This comes on top of a hefty $12 million signing bonus from his new deal. Baker’s contract includes a fully guaranteed $7 million salary for 2025, as well as $7.7 million guaranteed in 2026. This Pro Bowl bonus is a nice addition to the defensive star’s already impressive paycheck.
Baker’s outstanding 2024 season includes 155 combined tackles and two sacks, showcasing his all-around ability in both coverage and run support. His consistency in performance has now made him one of the most accomplished safeties in NFL history. With seven Pro Bowls and two All-Pro honors to his name, Baker becomes only the 14th safety in league history to reach these milestones. Twelve of these players have eventually been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a group Baker could very well join in the future.
Notably, Baker’s achievement also highlights the growing talent within the Arizona Cardinals roster. Tight end Trey McBride, who has recorded 104 receptions and 1,081 yards in 2024, also earned a Pro Bowl selection this year. McBride ranks second among all NFL tight ends in both receptions and receiving yards, making him one of the most dynamic offensive players in the league.
Baker’s continued excellence on the field, coupled with his recent financial windfall, demonstrates his value to both the Cardinals and the NFL at large. As he adds yet another Pro Bowl to his resume, all eyes will be on him as he looks to further solidify his legacy in 2025 and beyond.
