Even though the Arizona Cardinals made headlines recently by pulling a surprising upset over the San Francisco 49ers, they could still make a move to improve their roster this season. According to an NFL analysis, though, one option that can consider is trading Budda Baker before the deadline expires.
In a thrilling Week 5 matchup, the Cardinals edged out San Francisco with a score of 24-23, overcoming a 13-point halftime deficit. Arizona showcased a strong second-half performance, forcing three turnovers and shutting out the 49ers during that period. A key moment came from replacement kicker Chad Ryland, who secured the win with a 35-yard field goal in the final minutes.
Notable statistics from the game highlighted some impressive individual performances. Quarterback Kyler Murray achieved remarkable speed during a 50-yard touchdown run, reaching 21.27 miles per hour—the fastest recorded for a quarterback in eight years. This speed ranked as the 12th fastest among all ball carriers in the current season.
Running back James Conner also had a standout game, rushing for 86 yards on 19 carries while forcing nine missed tackles, the fourth-most in a single game this season. Interestingly, fellow back Mason had 89 rushing yards without facing a stacked box, indicating strategic decisions by both the Cardinals and 49ers.
NFL Analysis Urges Arizona Cardinals To Trade for Budda Baker
The Cardinals’ surprising win showed what the team can really do in the coming years. According to the latest NFL analysis by Bleacher Report, the team can do more to improve if they trade Baker away.
Add Now: Trade S Budda Baker
Technically, the addition here would be draft picks/assets for the future.
Even after Sunday’s win, the Cardinals aren’t expected to make the playoffs this season, so the organization should explore what it can get for Baker, who was ranked sixth overall on B/R’s NFL Trade Block Big Board column this week.
“The 28-year-old is entering the final year of his contract and has been the subject of trade chatter ever since he requested a trade during the 2023 offseason before settling for a revised contract instead,” B/R’s Kristopher Knox wrote.
“Baker would undoubtedly bring the Cardinals a strong return. He’s a six-time Pro Bowler who can provide positional versatility at safety and is still playing at a high level.”
Maybe a trade doesn’t happen this week after a win, but it should be under consideration in the future.
Baker’s potential trade from the Arizona Cardinals sparks significant debate. On one hand, trading Baker could yield valuable compensation and allow the team to embrace a youth movement in their secondary. Additionally, it might open the door for drafting a standout safety in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Conversely, moving on from Baker would weaken an already struggling defense and lose a franchise icon, which could alienate fans. Ultimately, the decision hinges on balancing immediate needs against long-term strategy, making this a pivotal moment for the Cardinals.
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