Budda Baker injury update: Cardinals DB carted off field after devastating hit

Cardinals defensive back Budda Baker had to be carted off the field after a violent collision with Rams running back Cam Akers.

The Wild Card Game between the Cardinals and the Rams had to be delayed briefly because of a scary injury to Budda Baker.

The Arizona defensive back collided with LA running back Cam Akers with the two players appearing to clash helmets.

While Akers popped back up, Baker remained on the turf as trainers rushed out to tend to him.

Budda Baker injury update: Cardinals DB out with a concussion

Baker was loaded onto a cart and taken in an ambulance to the hospital for additional evaluation.

The Cardinals announced that Baker will not return to the game with a concussion. The best of all possible news was added: “[He] has full use of all his extremities.”

When it comes to these kinds of injuries involving the head and neck, it’s a huge relief to know Baker was able to move his arms and legs. Now the concern seems focused in on the concussion.

Here’s how it all happened:

https://twitter.com/espn/status/1483284332592525312

Though Akers initially appeared to taunt Baker on the ground, the running back circled back to check on the safety once it became clear that he was injured.

Players from both teams surrounded Baker as he was carted off the field.

https://twitter.com/EmmanuelAcho/status/1483283579807297539

The Cardinals drafted Baker out of Washington in the 2017 NFL Draft. He’s made four Pro Bowls in five years as one of the key figures on defense for Arizona.

This season, Baker started 17 games with three interceptions, seven pass defenses, two sacks, six tackles for loss and 98 total tackles.