Commanders Sign $59 Million All-Pro From NFC West

The Washington Commanders have been making strides to strengthen their roster for the 2024 season, thanks to key free-agent acquisitions and a solid draft class.

However, their vision for long-term success goes beyond just this year. Looking ahead to 2025, the team’s general manager, Adam Peters, and

head coach, Dan Quinn, will need to once again make smart moves, utilizing a substantial amount of cap space that is expected to exceed $100 million.

One notable name that has been predicted to join the Commanders is three-time NFL All-Pro safety Budda Baker.

This would be a significant addition to Washington’s defense and could mark the next step in their pursuit of consistent competitiveness in the league.

According to Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, the Commanders are projected to make a move for Baker,

who is currently in the final season of a four-year, $59 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals. Baker, a standout safety who has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections, is widely regarded as one of the league’s top defensive talents.

Holder notes that the Commanders could greatly benefit from a player of his caliber, especially given the struggles of their current safety, Quan Martin, in coverage.

With Washington set to have a large amount of cap room, the team could afford to pursue Baker aggressively during the 2025 free agency period, strengthening their secondary even further.

Budda Baker has been a key player for the Arizona Cardinals since being drafted in 2017.

Known for his versatility, leadership, and high football IQ, Baker has consistently been one of the top safeties in the NFL. However, his time in Arizona may be coming to a close.

Despite his impressive resume, including six Pro Bowl selections and a reputation as a game-changing safety, Baker has been the subject of trade rumors for the past couple of years.

These rumors stem from his dissatisfaction with his contract, as he requested a trade after the Cardinals declined to make him one of the league’s highest-paid safeties.

With his current deal expiring, Baker’s future with Arizona remains uncertain, and he could be looking for a new home in 2025.

Despite the ongoing trade speculation, Baker remains focused on his current role with the Cardinals. After recently reaching his 100th career start, Baker expressed that he was not concerned with the trade rumors, stating his primary focus was on helping the team win games. He’s made it clear that, while a trade could happen, he is not allowing the uncertainty to distract him from his responsibilities on the field. Given his professionalism and strong play, Baker will likely be one of the most sought-after free agents once the 2025 offseason arrives.

The Washington Commanders have already shown their willingness to make bold moves to improve their defense, particularly in the secondary. In November 2024, they traded for All-Pro cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints, addressing a more pressing need at cornerback. However, with their defense continuing to evolve, adding a star safety like Budda Baker could be the next strategic move. With over $100 million in available cap space and a clear need for a playmaking safety, the Commanders are well-positioned to pursue a high-profile free agent in 2025.

As Washington works to build a competitive team for the future, signing a player of Baker’s caliber would be a major step forward in solidifying their defense and enhancing their playoff aspirations in the years to come.