"Net A Day 2 Pick": Steelers Problem At Safety Could Be Fixed With A Trade For Cardinals Star

The Pittsburgh Steelers may have just watched an incredible trade opportunity fall into General Manager Omar Khan's lap. The Arizona Cardinals appear to be approaching a complete roster shakeup, and one of their most accomplished defensive players is being mentioned as a potential trade candidate. For a Steelers organization searching for answers in its secondary, the timing couldn't be much better.

Khan has never been afraid to explore the market when Pittsburgh needs help. The Steelers entered the 2026 season hoping their revamped secondary would become a strength under new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. Instead, injuries and inconsistent performances have made the situation considerably more complicated, leaving Pittsburgh with legitimate questions about its long-term stability.

NFL insider Evan Sidery recently identified Cardinals safety Budda Baker as a potential name to watch ahead of the November 10 trade deadline. Arizona has stumbled to a 1-4 record and already traded wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to the Houston Texans. With the Cardinals seemingly shifting their attention toward the future, Sidery believes another significant move could be coming.

"Budda Baker is a potential trade candidate from the Cardinals," Sidery wrote. "Arizona seems close to going into full-blown sell mode, and Baker could net a Day 2 pick this year."

That's the kind of development Khan should be monitoring closely. Baker isn't an inexperienced player who would need years to establish himself. He's an eight-time Pro Bowler with an impressive reputation for physicality, leadership and attacking opposing offenses.

At 30 years old, Baker has already established himself as one of Arizona's most recognizable defensive players. However, his potential availability is especially intriguing because Pittsburgh wouldn't necessarily be acquiring a short-term rental. His contract extends through the 2027 season, meaning the Steelers could potentially secure his services for two playoff pushes.

That matters for an organization attempting to win immediately while remaining competitive beyond this season. Pittsburgh has invested heavily in its defense, and adding another accomplished veteran could strengthen a unit that hasn't consistently met expectations. Baker wouldn't solve every problem, but his experience could make life considerably easier for Graham.

Sidery also highlighted the contractual advantage that could attract contenders.

"Baker is under contract through 2027, so a contender would get two playoff runs with an elite safety," Sidery added.

Steelers' Omar Khan Was Just Handed A Gift On A Silver Platter To Trade For Budda Baker

Pittsburgh's safety situation makes this potential development particularly interesting. DeShon Elliott has been working toward his return from injured reserve, while Jaquan Brisker has experienced an uneven beginning to his Steelers career. Rayshawn Jenkins and Robert Spears-Jennings have also been asked to contribute during Elliott's absence.

There is reason to believe the secondary could improve once Elliott returns. However, depending entirely on one player's health to fix a larger problem carries obvious risks. Baker could give Pittsburgh another established defender while creating greater flexibility with its defensive personnel.

Imagine Graham having the opportunity to deploy Baker alongside Elliott and Brisker in different combinations. The Steelers could experiment with more aggressive looks without placing every responsibility on one particular safety. Baker's experience could also provide valuable leadership for younger players still adjusting to Pittsburgh's defensive system.

However, the financial implications cannot be ignored. Baker's current contract averages $18 million annually, and acquiring him would require careful salary-cap planning. Sidery's suggestion of a Day 2 draft pick also means Pittsburgh could be sacrificing a valuable second- or third-round selection.

That's a significant investment for a player entering his 30s. Baker's accomplishments are undeniable, but his past success doesn't guarantee that his best seasons are still ahead of him. Khan must also consider whether Pittsburgh's resources would be better spent addressing other positions.

Still, Arizona's decision to trade Harrison Jr. makes this situation worth monitoring. The Cardinals have already demonstrated a willingness to move recognizable talent for future draft compensation. If their struggles continue, Baker could become another valuable asset for a team focused on rebuilding.

There has been no confirmed report that Pittsburgh has contacted Arizona about Baker or that the Cardinals have officially made him available. For now, this remains a potential opportunity rather than an active trade negotiation. Nevertheless, Khan would be wise to explore what Arizona might demand if the situation develops.

The Steelers don't need to make a blockbuster move simply for the excitement surrounding it. However, opportunities to acquire proven defensive talent with multiple seasons of contractual control don't appear every day. If Arizona truly begins selling, Khan could have an opportunity to make Pittsburgh's defense considerably more dangerous.

Should the Pittsburgh Steelers pursue a trade for Budda Baker? Follow me on X @anthonyghalkias and let Steeler Nation know.

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