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Arizona Cardinals: Budda Baker Will Make an Immediate Impact

By Joseph Vasquez

Nov 19, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Budda Baker (32) sacks Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Manny Wilkins (5) during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 19, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Budda Baker (32) sacks Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Manny Wilkins (5) during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Out of all the Arizona Cardinals draftees, Budda Baker could be the one to make the most impact early

The Arizona Cardinals technically didn’t draft a “cornerback”, but they did get a couple guys that can play it. Budda Baker and Jonathan “Rudy” Ford have similar skill sets, and can play multiple secondary positions. The Cardinals got 2 guys who can definitely play cornerback. Baker especially will be a player that will make an immediate impact with his versatility.

Baker, out of the University of Washington, has gotten comparisons to star Cardinals safety Tyrann Mathieu, and will be used in a variety of ways. Expect to see him used a lot at nickel corner or free safety. He will bring an edge to the Cardinals defense when he is on the field. One play he could be blitzing, another at Nickel, and still yet at safety. He just adds a lot of skill and play making to an already talented defense.

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In 2016, at Washington, Baker had 70 tackles, 3 sacks, 2 interceptions and 9.5 tackles for a loss. If he lives up to those numbers heading into the NFL he will be a force to be reckoned with. The Cardinals have a talented secondary but lack a corner opposite of Patrick Peterson. As of now it looks to be either Justin Bethel or Brandon Williams that will start opposite of Peterson. Bethel is coming off a foot injury that limited his play, and Williams had some struggles early as a rookie.

Baker will definitely help with the corner situation. Even if he isn’t playing outside, Baker’s impact in the Nickel will leave Mathieu open to help with the side opposite Peterson, or vice versa. The Cardinals definitely got a steal with Baker in the second round. He will absolutely make an impact early, and it will be fun to watch.

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