Zack Baun, a former linebacker for the Wisconsin Badgers, gained a strong fan following during his college career. Hailing from West Bend, Wisconsin, Baun excelled at the University of Wisconsin and continued the tradition of formidable Badgers linebackers. He was picked by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, although he struggled to establish himself in the NFL with the team.
The Saints have faced challenges as a franchise in recent years, and after the 2023 season, Baun entered free agency with 62 games played, one interception, 88 tackles, and two sacks to his name.
He later signed a one-year contract worth $3.5 million with the Philadelphia Eagles, a deal regarded as one of the best bargains in recent times. The Eagles, likely to face the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card Round of the NFL Playoffs, announced they would rest their starters in Week 18. Consequently, Baun, one of the starters, may not play this weekend.
If he misses the game, Baun will finish the 2024 season with 151 tackles, five forced fumbles, four passes deflected, one fumble recovery, and an interception. Jeff Kerr from CBS reported that Baun is the first player in NFL history to achieve over 150 tackles and five forced fumbles in a single season. As previously mentioned, he signed with Philadelphia last offseason for $3.5 million.
It’s likely he will receive a significantly more valuable contract in 2025.
