It’s hard to believe anyone could have predicted Zack Baun’s rapid rise to one of the NFL’s top defenders in 2024 — aside from Baun himself and his closest circle.
Even the Philadelphia Eagles, who brought in Baun on a 1-year, $1.6 million contract in March 2024, couldn’t have anticipated the player he would become. Now considered one of the best inside linebackers in the NFL, Baun’s remarkable journey is even more impressive considering his position switch.
With the Eagles preparing to face the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX on February 9 in New Orleans, there’s a growing urgency to secure Baun with a long-term contract for the 2025 season.
“The Eagles initially signed Baun expecting him to be a rotational edge rusher and special teams contributor,” ESPN’s Tim McManus reported on January 29. “Instead, he evolved into one of the league’s premier off-ball linebackers … Philadelphia doesn’t often prioritize the linebacker position, but with Nakobe Dean recovering from a torn patellar tendon, re-signing their breakout star should be a priority.”
Baun’s first season as a full-time starter in Philadelphia saw him earn NFL All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors, tallying 151 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 1 interception, and 5 forced fumbles on the NFL’s top-ranked defense.
“I think there are other players out there who might just be in the wrong position and need to find the right fit,” Baun said in an interview with NFL Network’s Stacey Dales after the NFC Championship Game. “They just need the opportunity to make that move.”
Eagles Had Opportunity to Lock Up Baun During the Season
Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder had already urged the Eagles to extend Baun during the regular season.
“The 27-year-old came to Philly on a modest 1-year, $1.6 million contract this past offseason,” Holder wrote on November 25. “He’s far outperformed that deal, emerging as one of the Eagles’ top defenders. Whether it’s pursuing ball-carriers, rushing the passer, or playing in coverage, he’s done it all. Baun is set to earn a significant contract, and the Eagles can’t afford to let him hit the open market.”
Baun is now positioned for a lucrative payday, with Spotrac projecting his market value at around a 2-year, $20 million contract. Over the first five years of his NFL career, Baun has earned approximately $8.3 million.
Eagles Could Lose Another Star Defender
Baun isn’t the only key player the Eagles risk losing to free agency. Edge rusher Josh Sweat is also poised for a major contract.
However, Sweat may already be too expensive for the Eagles to retain. Pro Football Network lists Sweat as the third-best available free agent in 2025, and with just $18.9 million in projected salary cap space, Philadelphia faces tough decisions.
Spotrac values Sweat’s market worth at a 3-year, $45 million deal, which would average $15 million per year.
