Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun was one of the biggest surprises of the 2024 season, and the impending free agent should earn a massive raise following his breakout campaign. After doing nothing of note during his four years with the New Orleans Saints, the former third-round pick came alive in a new environment. Starting and appearing in 16 games, the Wisconsin product made his first Pro Bowl and earned First-Team All-Pro honors while helping the Eagles win the Super Bowl.
Now set to test the open market, Zack Baun admits he’s excited to become a free agent but hopes to stay with the Philadelphia Eagles.
“I’m curious, I don’t know what it’ll look like, honestly,” Baun said, via PHLY’s Zach Berman. “Hopefully it’s here. I love this place. I appreciate what they’ve done for my career and my family – just everything. I got a lot of options to weigh.”
From the sound of it, Zack Baun would love to stay with the Eagles but the free agent doesn’t plan on taking a hometown discount. This means he’s probably going to leave, as he’s the top linebacker set to reach the open market and General Manager Howie Roseman historically does not believe in paying up for linebackers. While he may have played his last snap with Philadelphia, Baun could earn a large contract with the Los Angeles Chargers or Baltimore Ravens.
Chargers, Ravens Could Pay Up For Free Agent Zack Baun
The Los Angeles Chargers made the playoffs in Jim Harbaugh’s first year at the helm despite shedding multiple contracts while washing away the stink of the Brandon Staley Era. Now, Harbaugh and company have a projected $63.4 million in cap space to rebuild this team and prepare them for the a deep playoff run. While the organization will probably target offensive options like wide receiver Tee Higgins or help along the offensive line, don’t be surprised if they target Zack Baun as a free agent.
Former third-round pick Daiyan Henley had a strong first season under Harbaugh, but this team could use another linebacker. Harbaugh believes in stopping the run more than just about any other coach in football, so he’ll want someone who can help recreate the Patrick Willis-NaVorro Bowman linebacker duo from Harbaugh’s days with the 49ers. While Baun and Henley might not match that elite level of play, they will the team one of the best linebacker duos in football.
Replacing Queen
The Baltimore Ravens lost several key players in free agency last year, including former first-round pick Patrick Queen. While the team still managed to win the AFC North without the Pro Bowler, the defense wasn’t the same without two high-caliber linebackers. Roquan Smith is still a good player, but he started slowing down last year. Trenton Simpson, meanwhile, is an adequate starter, but there is room for improvement.
Zack Baun is a somewhat-risky free agent signing, as he only has one season of elite play. However, if there’s anyone that knows how to bring out the best in a linebacker, it’s head coach John Harbaugh. The one-time Super Bowl champion should know how to properly utilize the reigning All-Pro and use him as a key part in one of the league’s elite defenses.
Main Photo: James Lang – Imagn Images
