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The Philadelphia Eagles have hit the jackpot this offseason by solidifying their defense with a groundbreaking move. Linebacker Zack Baun, whose 2024 performance nearly earned him Defensive Player of the Year honors, has signed a three-year, $51 million contract, including $34 million in guaranteed money.
This deal, graded as a top transaction by ESPN, underscores the former New Orleans Saints player's transformation into a defensive powerhouse and the Eagles' knack for player development. Baun's rise to prominence is a story of adaptability and excellence.
Originally signed to a modest one-year, $1.6 million contract in 2024, Baun transitioned into an off-ball linebacker role and delivered a career-defining season. His performance metrics tell the story: Baun allowed a league-best minus-26 Expected Points Added (EPA) as the nearest defender, per NFL Next Gen Stats.
The numbers back him up
He also recorded 0.6 yards allowed per coverage snap, sixth best among linebackers, and ranked ninth in run stop win rate at 41%. Beyond the numbers, Baun contributed 3.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and a Super Bowl interception during the Eagles' playoff run.
ESPN's Seth Walder hailed the transaction as one of the best examples of player development in the NFL, while Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio praised Baun for exceeding expectations. "He's had a great year," Fangio remarked. "He's set a standard for himself... (and) taken his game to the ceiling."
This signing not only strengthens Philadelphia's defense but also sends a message to the league, the Eagles are committed to fostering talent and aiming for sustained success. With Baun locked in for three more years, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this star linebacker continues to make his mark on the NFL.