GLENDALE – One of the most glaring comments in the Arizona Cardinals’ media session came from what defensive captain Budda Baker said about Jacoby Brissett’s holdout situation and the Cardinals’ QB future.
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Arizona safety Baker (3) celebrates a defensive stop against the Seattle Seahawks at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Sept. 25, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
What made Budda Baker’s comments about Jacoby Brissett’s absence from OTAs and training camp so important was that Baker didn’t criticize the veteran quarterback or question his commitment. Instead, he gave the kind of answer only respected leaders can give honestly. “It’s no love lost,” Baker explained, emphasizing that once Brissett returns to the building, it will be nothing but love and support per Donnie Druin from Sports Illustrated.
Budda Baker speaks on the Jacoby Brissett situation:
#AZCardinals safety Budda Baker says he understands the business aspect of the game when asked about players skipping OTAs pic.twitter.com/xHPVtKoLtr
— Donnie Druin (@DonnieDruin) May 27, 2026
Players understand contracts differently than fans do. Careers are short, guarantees disappear quickly, and one injury can erase leverage forever. Baker openly acknowledged that reality by calling football “a business” and saying he would support Brissett regardless of the negotiations. But understanding the business and agreeing with the business are two different things.
Arizona quarterback Brissett (7) prepares to play the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium on Dec 7, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
For Arizona, handing Brissett massive money could create long-term problems bigger than the current standoff. The Cardinals are still trying to build sustainable depth across the roster, especially in the trenches and secondary. Overspending on a veteran quarterback solution could limit flexibility exactly when the franchise needs patience most.
Oct 27, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cardinals safety Baker (3) celebrates tackling Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) for a short gain in the thirdquarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images
That’s why Baker’s response carried emotional weight beyond a standard training-camp quote. He showed fans what leadership actually looks like in modern football: separating personal respect from organizational reality. Baker defended his teammate without creating division. He protected the locker room while indirectly acknowledging the pressure surrounding the current QB situation. Arizona may not agree to Brissett’s price tag. But Baker’s words ensured one thing remains intact while negotiations continue, which is trust inside the building.
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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
