Eagles Notes: It’s time to extend Zack Baun

When the Eagles agreed to terms with free agent linebacker Zack Baun last offseason, nobody knew what his role would be in Vic Fangio’s defense.

Primarily used as a pass-rusher with the Saints, Baun signed a one-year, $1.6 million deal to compete for one of the starting off-ball jobs in Philadelphia.

Baun has quickly outplayed that contract, evidenced by his diving interception in yesterday’s 28-23 win over Jacksonville.

Zack Baun lays out for the interception!

📺: #JAXvsPHI on CBS/Paramount+
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/pzTokw8zIl

— NFL (@NFL) November 3, 2024

Fangio had a feeling that Baun could handle off-ball duties coming into the summer. Despite initial skepticism from others, the former third-round pick has proved him right.

Baun started alongside Devin White (who’s now released) throughout training camp and never surrendered his spot.

“On occasion he [Baun] would end up as an inside linebacker, not very often, and from those few plays, I thought he could do it,” Fangio said in September. “Was I going to bet my life savings on it? No, but I had a good feeling that he could do it. And he can.”

In his first game with the Eagles against Green Bay, Baun racked up 15 tackles and two sacks, and it became apparent that GM Howie Roseman may have struck gold for the price of copper.

That performance has become routine over the next several weeks.

Per PFF, Baun has been the NFL’s second-best coverage linebacker this season behind only three-time All-Pro Fred Warner. His instincts, closing speed, and play recognition have been an anchor over the middle of Philly’s defense.

At this point, it would be foolish to let him walk away in the offseason.

Nice recognition on the play fake by Zack Baun. pic.twitter.com/YIodGjJ6NP

— Shane Haff (@ShaneHaffNFL) November 3, 2024

Regarding midseason extensions, Baun would be the first candidate on my list.

The Eagles can’t afford to lose another linebacker via free agency, i.e. TJ Edwards (who was always going to Chicago).

Considering the chemistry between Baun and third-year linebacker Nakobe Dean on the field, it should be a top priority for Roseman to keep them together long-term.

Stellar linebacker play has been a rarity in this city, and Baun’s price is going up by the day. Through eight games, Baun has recorded 79 tackles (11th in the NFL) and is allowing a career-low 71.6 passer rating when targeted in coverage.

"We've become more than teammates, almost… you feel like you're playing with a brother."

Nakobe Dean discusses his growing friendship with fellow linebacker Zack Baun and the collection of takeaway balls they've started. 🦅 😤 pic.twitter.com/ydyjQrAAr3

— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) November 4, 2024

Mandatory Credit: Getty Images