As the 2017 NFL Draft approaches, Washington Huskies prospects need NFL mentors to help them through the process. Safety Budda Baker found one in Seattle Seahawks safety Earl Thomas
The Washington Huskies and Seattle Seahawks are similar in many ways. After all, both hail from the Emerald City herself, Seattle Washington. Both are known for solid defense and for ball control offense. And after 2016-2017, both are known for great play out of the defensive backs.
Washington Huskies safety Budda Baker is one such player. And he has earned the eye of Seattle Seahawks great, safety Earl Thomas:
That boy @buddabaker32 looking super smooooooth out there. The kid is gonna be special. #CantMeasureHeart
— Earl Thomas (@Earl_Thomas) March 6, 2017
Earl Thomas does not lead cheers nor hand out participation awards. He doesn’t have to. He is a 5-foot-10 202 pound powerhouse safety for the Seattle Seahawks. And he knows all about the NFL Draft.
Thomas Delivered
He was drafted 14th in the 2010 NFL Draft by Seattle, and has delivered on that first round promise. He has been a four-time pro bowler on one of the elite defenses in the NFL. 2016 was the first season Thomas missed games, only able to play 11 of the 16.
His style of play – hard-hitting close coverage- defines the play of the Seahawks overall.
Fortunately, Washington Husky safety Budda Baker plays a very similar game to that of Earl Thomas. He also stands 5-foot-10 and weighs in at just under 200 pounds. He boasts that 30.75″ arm length which is the gold standard for the Seattle Seahawks
he'd have to go above and beyond in a huge way to overcome 31.5" arms. Seahawks dont mess around below 32"
— Field Gulls (@FieldGulls) March 4, 2017
But it’s more than dimensions which catch the eye of the Seahawks players. The Seahawks deliver on defense because they play with passion. And it’s that passion which recognizes the same fire in another player.
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Baker Plays With Fire Too
Budda Baker plays with fire too.
He plays hard, sheds blockers, covers, and tackles like an NFL veteran. But he brings the pain and the pop to every play. If he is there for the Seahawks, will they select him?
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He fits the bill for the Seahawks, but they may have more pressing matters. They may be eyeing up cornerback Kevin King if he is there is round one. They also need help on the offensive line. But the Seahawks will certainly pick the best player available in the 2017 NFL Draft. With Baker’s skills, it won’t take long for him to become that best player.