Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said that the team will make a “concerted effort” to re-sign linebacker Zack Baun, per PHLY’s Zach Berman.
Baun broke out in Philadelphia last season after four inconsistent years in New Orleans to start his career. The 2020 third-rounder struggled to find a role in the Saints defense, but he was a perfect fit in Vic Fangio‘s scheme in 2024. Baun led the Eagles with 153 total tackles (sixth-most league-wide) and earned a 90.1 grade from Pro Football Focus (subscription required) that led all linebackers.
Baun far outplayed his one-year, $3.5MM contract last year. After proving himself with first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors – not to mention a fifth-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting – the former Wisconsin Badger will be looking to cash in on his next contract. However, he is 28 years old with just one elite season under his belt, which could limit his value, especially in terms of guaranteed money.
Baun has expressed a desire to stay with the Eagles, who are no stranger to paying premium talent at top-of-the-market rates. Their contract structures would easily allow them to re-sign Baun, who could command more $15MM per year on a new deal.
The Eagles do have a few other starters slated to hit free agency, including Mekhi Becton, Josh Sweat, and Milton Williams. The team has been proactive with extensions in recent years, but didn’t reach any long-term agreements during the 2024 season. With several players putting up strong seasons on the way to Philadelphia’s Super Bowl victory, it will be difficult to retain them all.
“We didn’t do any deals during the season, which probably could have prevented some of these problems, but we just didn’t feel like the timing was right,” said Roseman.
It’s not easy to find elite middle linebacker play in the NFL. Given Baun’s ascension in Philadelphia, both sides should be properly motivated to continue their partnership into 2025 and beyond.
Very weak draft class after top 12 players. Need to sign Baum, Bechton & either sign Williams or trade for Garrett
Should be priority #1 with their free agents. I trust Howie will find a way to get a good deal done.
Baun was the most important key to making this defense work in 2024. He needs to be the #1 re-signing priority among the Eagles free agents. Becton is another one who would be ideal to bring back. He’s young and, like Baun, might give the Eagles a break since the Eagles are the ones who took a chance and revitalized their careers.
Three-tech DTs are plentiful in this draft and I have no doubt Moro Ojomo can pick up right where Milton Williams left off. Sweat is going to be too expensive, so taking an edge rusher at 32 is imperative. I would like to see the Eagles make an effort to bring Isaiah Rodgers back too.