Another star could be on his way out of Arizona.
Cardinals safety Budda Baker has requested a trade, a person with knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.
Baker was originally a second round pick by the Cardinals in 2017. He’s spent his entire career in Arizona and is regarded as one of the best safeties in the NFL.
Baker is a two-time first team All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler. The defensive back has amassed 650 tackles, 34 pass deflections, seven interceptions and six forced fumbles in 93 career games, all in a Cardinals uniform.
The 27-year-old signed a contract extension with the Cardinals in 2020. He’s signed through the 2024 season.
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Baker is not the only big-name player to leave the desert this offseason. Future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt retired and standout wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is rumored to be on his way out of Arizona.
All this comes after the firing of head coach Kliff Kingsbury. He was replaced by a first-time head coach in Jonathan Gannon.
Possible destinations for Budda Baker
► Chicago Bears
The Bears have the most salary cap space in the NFL with $35.8 million available, per Over The Cap. Bears general manager Ryan Poles has shown a willingness to go aggresively after players this offseason.
► Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles lost versatile safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson in free agency. Baker would fill the void and be an upgrade in Philly’s defensive backfield.
► New England Patriots
Long-time Patriots safety Devin McCourty retired this offseason. Baker would be an adequate replacement in the defensive backfield and a leader on the New England defense.
► Indianapolis Colts
The Colts have $22.4 million in salary cap space, per Over The Cap. Indianapolis could use a playmaker and a veteran leader in its defensive backfield after trading cornerback Stephon Gilmore to the Dallas Cowboys.
Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Tyler Dragon on Twitter @TheTylerDragon.
