Budda Baker Addresses Trade Rumors While in Halloween Costume

Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker continued his Halloween tradition by wearing a clown mask during media availability on Friday, addressing the growing trade rumors surrounding him.

Despite the festive attire, Baker adopted a serious tone when asked about his future with the Cardinals, who are reportedly preparing to be sellers at the upcoming trade deadline. "I just live in the present, like today having a great time with you guys," Baker said, his voice muffled by the mask. "Going to go out and have a great Friday practice, and just focus on playing against the Dallas Cowboys and trying to get a 'W' at their stadium."

Baker, an eight-time Pro Bowler in his 10th season with Arizona, is a prominent name in trade discussions as the November 10 deadline approaches. The Cardinals have already traded wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to the Houston Texans this month, signaling a team in a significant rebuild with a current 2-5 record.

Earlier this week, Baker told ESPN that he has not requested a trade but also has not explicitly stated he does not want to be traded. He acknowledged that trade rumors are an inherent part of the NFL business, even though he has not directly discussed his situation with general manager Monti Ossenfort.

"I'm here. I want to win. I want to be here," Baker told ESPN. "I'm just controlling what I can control, just taking it one week at a time, and hopefully when the deadline ends, I'll still be here. If not, I mean, it's a business. I understand at the end of the day and that's it."

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that Baker would attract significant interest from other teams, though a trade is not guaranteed. Baker noted that he has been part of trade rumors for several years.

In his current season, entering Week 8 against the Cowboys, Baker has recorded one interception, a career-high 3.5 sacks, and 44 combined tackles, with 25 of those being solo.

Outside of the trade speculation, Baker also shared his preferences for Halloween candy, favoring fruity options and expressing a dislike for candy corn, while confirming he distributes full-sized candy bars to trick-or-treaters.