Zack Baun left New Orleans frustrated after being underused as an edge rusher. He was uncertain about his future and set on signing a one-year deal with the Eagles for $1.6 million.
Fast forward almost a year later, and Baun is a significant reason Philadelphia is 13-3 and roaring toward the playoffs after winning the NFC East. A standout who deserves a contract extension, Baun should be in the running for Defensive Player of the Year.
What a play by Zack Baun. The Eagles walk him down as an EDGE rusher in their 6-man front, have him bluff blitz, and then he gets his hand on the slant. pic.twitter.com/pQRZAjKWYn
— Shane Haff (@ShaneHaffNFL) December 30, 2024
Baun, 27, started six games for the Saints last season, recording two sacks, an interception, and four quarterback hits. Baun recorded 30 tackles across 17 games in the 2023 regular season.
Baun saw a career-high 292 defensive snaps last season while continuing to play a critical role on special teams (381). The 2020 third-round pick was a core special-teamer since his first year with the Saints, but he’s yet to log more than 30 tackles in a single season.
This season, after beating out Devin White for the linebacker spot, Baun has posted 151 tackles, 3.5 sacks, one interception, five forced fumbles, 11 tackles for loss, four passes defended, and five quarterback hits.
