The offseason of lists and rankings continue. The latest comes from Pro Football Focus, where they rank the top 32 safeties of the NFL heading into the 2021 season. However, in those rankings, one Arizona Cardinals player is found lower than most would probably believe.
All-Pro safety Budda Baker is one of the best safeties in the league but PFF only has him ranked 16th.
Unfortunately for Baker, the most memorable play of his season — and arguably his career — is getting chased down from behind by a flying D.K. Metcalf to prevent a defensive touchdown, but Baker is a big-hitting safety who has always excelled against the run but has improved in coverage throughout his NFL career. Last season saw him earn a career-high PFF coverage grade (68.9).
That is quite low for a player recognized as one of the best at his position.
He was an All-Pro and has been a Pro Bowler each of the last two seasons. He is the defender opposing offenses account for on the field.
There are a number of quality safeties in the league, but to put Baker in the middle of these rankings is just disrespectful.
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