As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for a pivotal offseason, they face critical decisions that could reshape their roster and financial outlook. With a projected cap space that needs optimization, trading key veteran players like Budda Baker and James Conner could provide the financial relief necessary to bolster the team’s future.
Baker, a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ defense, is once again a prominent trade candidate. His stellar performance has earned him seven consecutive Pro Bowl selections, showcasing his status as one of the league’s top safeties. At 30 years old, the team could save approximately $13.1 million in cap space by moving him, a decision that might be smart given his age and the potential for a rebuild.
Arizona Cardinals, Budda Baker, NFL
Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker (3) against the Atlanta Falcons at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Meanwhile, running back James Conner also finds himself in a precarious position. Although he has proven to be a valuable asset, rushing for over 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons, he is now 31 and coming off an injury. Trading Conner could clear an additional $7.6 million from the salary cap, making him an attractive option for teams seeking experienced backfield help.
The prospect of creating over $20 million in cap space by trading both players presents a significant opportunity for the Cardinals. Such a move could allow general manager Monti Ossenfort to secure younger talent either through free agency or the draft. The potential cap relief is essential for a franchise looking to rebuild and develop its roster strategically.
NFL Analysis Predicts Arizona Cardinals to Trade 2 Top Assets to Create Massive Cap Space
Arizona Cardinals, James Conner
September 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) during the first quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Arizona may move two of its players during the NFL offseason this year. This is detailed more in an analysis by Alex Ballentine for Bleacher Report.
Budda Baker will once again be a trade candidate. The Cardinals could create $13.1 million in cap space. He’s going to be 30 years old, but he’s coming off his seventh-consecutive Pro Bowl.
Sticking with the theme of veterans who might no longer be part of the vision, the Cards could clear $7.6 million off their books by trading Conner. He’s 31, but might still hold some value for teams since he had back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing campaigns in 2023 and 2024.
While both Baker and Conner have been integral to the team’s identity, the changing landscape may necessitate tough choices. Teams often have to weigh the present contributions of veteran players against the long-term health of their salary cap.
The Cardinals are at a crossroads that could determine their trajectory for years to come. By making calculated moves with veteran players, they can position themselves for a successful future while navigating the complexities of the NFL’s financial landscape.
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