The Lions Should Trade for Budda Baker

The Detroit Lions just got a firsthand look at what Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker can bring to a defense.

Now, they should consider bringing him to Detroit.

Baker remains one of the NFL's premier safeties, and at 30 years old, he's still producing at a high level. Through five games this season, Baker has recorded 36 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, three passes defended and an interception. He also earned his eighth pro bowl selection in 2025.

For a Lions defense that is trying to establish itself as one of the league's best, adding Baker would be a significant move.

Why It Makes Sense

Baker brings more than statistics.

He's a veteran defensive leader who can play downhill, cover in space and make plays around the football. Detroit has already invested heavily in its defensive front, and adding a proven playmaker like Baker on the back end could make life easier for Kelvin Sheppard's defense.

The timing could also make sense.

Arizona entered the season 1-4 and has already shown a willingness to make major moves, trading Marvin Harrison Jr. to Houston. That could be an indication that the Cardinals are willing to listen on other veterans before the trade deadline.

Baker is under contract through 2027, however, so acquiring him wouldn't be cheap. His current deal carries an $18 million average annual value, meaning Detroit would have to make a significant investment in both draft capital and salary.

Is He Worth It?

For the right price, absolutely.

The Lions are built to compete right now. Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell and the rest of Detroit's core aren't getting any younger, and this is the type of window where adding an established veteran can be worth sacrificing future draft capital.

Baker would give Detroit another legitimate difference-maker on defense and add a veteran presence to a fairly young secondary.

And if the Cardinals are willing to listen, Brad Holmes should at least make the call.