Eagles securing key free agent among top offseason moves. NFL.com’s Jeffri Chadiha commended the Philadelphia Eagles for securing linebacker Zack Baun on a three-year, $51 million contract, ranking the move No. 8 on his list of the top 10 offseason transactions.
Leading the rankings was the Chicago Bears’ decision to hire Ben Johnson as head coach, followed by the Cincinnati Bengals extending star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Baun, a finalist for the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year award, had the potential to attract significant interest in free agency. However, he prioritized staying in Philadelphia, recognizing the team’s culture and system as a perfect fit.
“I really didn’t want to leave,” Baun admitted. “The culture, the people, and the system in place here made it feel right for me and my family.”
Despite losing several key players from their recent Super Bowl-winning roster, the Eagles made re-signing Baun a priority. His playmaking ability was instrumental in their championship run, including a pivotal interception in the Super Bowl.
Baun has already established himself as one of the franchise’s best free-agent acquisitions. Now, with three more years in Philadelphia, he aims to build on his success and continue making an impact.
“Toward the end of the season, I was playing with so much confidence that I knew I’d make a play,” Baun said. “I’m excited to build on that momentum and keep growing within this scheme.”
Why Zack Baun is Poised for a Second Consecutive All-Pro Season in 2025
When the Philadelphia Eagles signed Zack Baun last March, few could have predicted the breakout season that followed. Even the Eagles’ front office didn’t foresee it—otherwise, he would have received a multi-year deal from the start rather than a one-year “prove-it” contract. Eagles securing key free agent among top offseason moves.
A year later, Baun’s story is one of the most remarkable in recent memory, transforming from a special teams contributor with the Saints to a First-Team All-Pro and key defensive playmaker for the Eagles. Now, with a fresh three-year extension, Baun is well-positioned to earn his second straight All-Pro selection.
How Baun Became an All-Pro Star
Initially overlooked, Baun forced his way onto the roster with strong performances in training camp and preseason. By the end of the season, he had become one of the most dominant defensive players in the league.
In 2024, Baun led the Eagles in tackles (93 solo, 151 combined) while also recording 3.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, an interception, and four pass breakups. His postseason performance was even more impressive, leading all players with 33 total tackles and securing two interceptions—one of which came in the Super Bowl against Patrick Mahomes, helping the Eagles take a commanding halftime lead.
With that kind of impact, it’s no surprise that Baun’s return was a priority for Philadelphia. Now, as he enters his second season with the team, here’s why another All-Pro nod is well within reach.
Five Reasons Baun Will Be an All-Pro Again in 2025
1. Name Recognition and League-Wide Respect
Once an unknown, Baun has now solidified himself as one of the NFL’s top linebackers. Name recognition plays a major role in All-Pro voting, and after his dominant 2024 season, he’s on the radar of fans, players, and analysts alike. Another strong year will only reinforce his status as a top-tier defender.
2. The Eagles’ High-Profile Platform
As the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Eagles will be in the national spotlight throughout the 2025 season. Philadelphia is set to play multiple primetime and standalone games, meaning Baun will have ample opportunities to showcase his talents on the biggest stage. More exposure often leads to greater recognition in end-of-season honors.
3. Vic Fangio’s Defensive System
Baun thrived in defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s scheme in his first year, and that success should continue in 2025. The transition from a pass-rushing specialist to a versatile off-ball linebacker proved to be a perfect fit for his skill set. With another year of experience in the system, Baun’s playmaking ability could reach even greater heights.
4. Production and Statistical Dominance
Baun’s numbers from last season were already elite, and with the Eagles defending their championship, he is expected to remain a focal point of the defense. With Nakobe Dean likely missing the start of the season, Baun’s role will be even more crucial, setting him up for another high-volume tackling season with plenty of splash plays.
5. Durability and Availability
One of Baun’s underrated strengths is his ability to stay on the field. Aside from a minor groin injury leading up to Super Bowl 59, he has been a model of durability throughout his career. In a league where availability is often as valuable as talent, his reliability will be key to another standout season.
Baun’s Path to Greatness Continues
Zack Baun’s rise from a special teamer to an All-Pro defender has been nothing short of incredible. Now, with a full year in Philadelphia’s system under his belt and a new contract, he is set to build on that success. With his talent, work ethic, and the right circumstances surrounding him, another All-Pro season seems not just possible—but likely.
