GLENDALE – When franchise leaders speak publicly, organizations listen. That is why Cardinals defensive captain Budda Baker’s recent post on social media regarding Jacoby Brissett carries far more significance than another offseason contract debate.
Nov 9, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Arizona safety Baker (3) walks off the field after the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
Just want bro to get his shit done… he is not asking for what you think. Bro is asking for below the bare minimum. Let’s just get it done!!!
— Budda Baker (@Buddabaker3) July 9, 2026
Baker is coming out in support, and his message on social media suggests something statistics and depth charts cannot fully measure, which is trust around Jacoby Brissett. Quarterbacks shape offensive production, but respected veterans shape organizational culture. Baker is one of the Cardinals’ longest-tenured players, a perennial Pro Bowler, and the unquestioned leader and captain of the defense. Publicly supporting Brissett signals that teammates value what he brings beyond the box score. It also indicates this negotiation is viewed differently inside the building than it is by fans debating salary figures.
Dec 14, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Arizona quarterback Brissett (7) throws downfield during the first quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The Cardinals have already positioned themselves to move forward without Brissett if necessary. They signed veteran Gardner Minshew to provide experience and drafted Carson Beck in the third round of this year’s draft. From a roster-building perspective, the front office has created insurance at football’s most important position. NFL playoff-contending teams often keep respected veterans because continuity creates stability. Veteran quarterbacks prepare starters, mentor younger players, and preserve confidence when injuries strike. Those contributions rarely appear in passing yards or touchdown totals, but they influence winning over a 17-game season.
Arizona safety Baker (3) celebrates after beating the New York Jets 31-6 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Nov. 10, 2024. © Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
For Cardinals fans, Baker’s comments provide a rare glimpse behind the curtain. Rather than remaining silent during a business dispute, he chose to advocate for a teammate, emphasizing that Brissett is seeking less than many assume. The lasting takeaway is that Arizona’s defensive captain believes Brissett is worth fighting for. When one of the franchise’s most trusted voices publicly makes that case, it transforms a routine contract negotiation into a defining moment for the Cardinals’ leadership, locker-room chemistry, and long-term culture.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
