Budda Baker has 1 rule for Jonathan Gannon ahead of his return to Philadelphia

TEMPE — There’s a lot being made out of Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon’s return to Philadelphia this week.

The last time Gannon and Cardinals defensive coordinator Nick Rallis were on the sidelines of Lincoln Financial Field, they were a part of the home team that was just one win away from hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.

And while they’re now leading an enemy into the City of Brotherly Love, there’s bound to be reminiscing and warm wishes between Gannon and the many faces he came to know during his previous tenure.

That’s all fine and dandy to safety Budda Baker — just as long as it’s after Week 17’s tilt.

“I think he’s treating throughout the week like it’s just another game. … He has us thinking it’s just another game,” Baker said Wednesday as he began to crack a smile.

“During his team meeting this morning, I almost interrupted JG, because I was thinking in my head, ‘I better not see no shaking hands, kissing, hugging babies before the game. You do that after the game.'”

Jonathan Gannon has the #AZCardinals “thinking it’s just another game” this week vs. the Eagles.

That didn’t stop Budda Baker’s mind from wondering during Wednesday’s team meeting.

“I almost interrupted JG because I was thinking in my head like I better not see no shaking… pic.twitter.com/f4C78JvrMN

— Arizona Sports (@AZSports) December 27, 2023

The safety added he expects the head coach to get a good laugh of his remarks.

All jokes aside, though, Baker is looking forward to the challenge ahead of the Cardinals.

“Just a team that’s battling to be the No. 1 seed in the NFC,” Baker said. “A team that’s going to be in the playoffs and a team that’s one of the best teams in the league.

“For us to come in there and win that game, we’re going to have to play a very good style of football and take it one play at a time. … We’re going to try to go into their house and win the game.”

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