The Pittsburgh Steelers have liked what they have seen at the defensive back position so far in 2026, but that usually doesn't stop General Manager Omar Khan from trying to keep improving that unit. The position group as a whole has a tendency to get injured more often than others, which means Pittsburgh is always looking to load up on depth there. The good news is that the safety room is finally getting healthy, but bringing in an extra piece likely wouldn't hurt just in case a worst-case scenario pops up.
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Steelers General Manager Omar Khan is seen talking on the phone during a practice session in the heart of the Steel City, likely handling team matters as he continues to shape Pittsburgh’s roster ahead of the upcoming NFL season.
If the Steelers do trade for a defensive back, the most likely scenario is that they acquire a veteran backup in exchange for a late-round pick. DeShon Elliott is finally healthy, and rookie Robert Spears-Jennings has been tearing it up during the team’s four-game winning streak. There's no real need to rock the boat. If a high-end option becomes available for cheap, however, calls will be made.
One of those players may already be available. NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler mentioned one name in particular that is likely to be moved while hosting an Ask Me Anything segment on Reddit.
"[Budda] Baker, there is interest, so we will see," Fowler said.
With Budda Baker being 30 years old and having a high cap hit, it's hard to imagine that the Arizona Cardinals would be able to fetch a substantial return for him. The good news is that he would be seen as a rental, as he is out of for-sure guaranteed money after the 2026 season, and the Cardinals would be on the hook for the remainder of his signing bonus. If Baker plays well in Pittsburgh if acquired, a restructure would be in order.
Baker himself is actually a very solid player. He is a four-time All-Pro and is having a career year in 2026. Through eight games, he has only allowed a 48.1% completion percentage from opposing quarterbacks, which is by far his best mark in his career. He also racked up 3.5 sacks already, which is a new career high. As he gets older, his versatility has been getting utilized more, and that has led to a career renaissance for the former first-round pick.
Mark J. Rebilas / Imagn Images
Arizona Cardinals linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. (1) with safety Wydett Williams Jr. (31) and safety Budda Baker (3) against the Detroit Lions at State Farm Stadium.
If the Steelers can get away with giving up just a Day 3 pick to acquire Baker, it may be worth rocking the boat to get it done. You can never have too much depth on the team, especially at defensive back. The biggest concern would be having to give up a better pick so the Cardinals eat more of the safety's salary. Even with all the talent at the position, a guy like Arizona's star does not come around often.
Steelers Have Their Own Version Of Baker With The Career Renassaince
The main argument against trading for Baker would be that the Steelers already have someone just like him. Jalen Ramsey has done well while playing the "star" position: a defensive back that plays wherever he is needed. Those two started out playing different positions, but they have done excellent jobs moving around. However, this could still play out in Pittsburgh's favor if it can execute correctly.
Trying to figure out where one explosive defensive back is playing is tough on a quarterback, let alone two of those types of players. This could be a risky endeavor, and maybe there's a good reason why it hasn't been done before. However, we won't know until someone tries it. The Steelers love disguising coverages and confusing the quarterback. If this works, this great defense could take the next step forward or, more reasonably, have more explosiveness at the safety position.
What do you think about the Steelers possibly trading for Baker? Let us know on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.
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