What happened: The Buffalo Bills made a strong push to acquire Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker ahead of the trade deadline, according to Jordan Schultz. Arizona resisted moving the franchise cornerstone despite a 3-6 start, prompting Buffalo to pivot and acquire Amani Hooker instead.
Why it matters: Buffalo holds a 7-1 record atop the AFC and sought top-tier secondary reinforcement to solidify its defense for the postseason stretch. Arizona opted to keep Baker in the fold rather than collect future draft capital amid a difficult season.
By the numbers: Baker has made 62 tackles with 3.5 sacks and one interception in 2026 through 9 games. Hooker has logged 52 tackles and five interceptions in 2026 through 7 games.
What to watch: Buffalo prepares to integrate Hooker into its secondary, while Arizona continues its regular-season slate with Baker anchoring the defense.