A second-round pick for the Cardinals in 2017, Budda Baker has been named to four Pro Bowls in his five NFL seasons, including each of the last three. Michael Chow via Imagn Content Services, LLC

Cardinals' Budda Baker carted off after violent collision

By Adam Stites | Last updated 1/17/22

Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker was carted off in the third quarter of a playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams after a violent collision with running back Cam Akers.

Baker, 26, attempted to tackle Akers, but appeared to be knocked unconscious on contact with the running back. Several players on the field instantly recognized the severity of Baker's injury and gestured for training staff to get on the field.

The Cardinals safety was strapped to a stretcher with his head immobilized. Just before he was taken off the field, Baker could be seen lifting his right arm to gesture to his teammates.

Budda Baker was ruled out with a concussion.

He had movement and feeling in his extremities as he was carted off the field.
— Josh Weinfuss (@joshweinfuss) January 18, 2022

While Akers lowered his head for the collision with Baker, and briefly gestured to the motionless Baker after the play, neither unnecessary roughness nor taunting were called on Akers. However, a holding call on the Rams did wipe out Akers' 11-yard gain.

A second-round pick for the Cardinals in 2017, Baker has been named to four Pro Bowls in his five NFL seasons, including each of the last three. Baker recorded a career-best three interceptions in the 2021 regular season as well as two sacks.

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