Zack Baun’s $51 million contract: Eagles lock in defensive playmaker

Zack Baun’s contract has been extended for three years. The Philadelphia Eagles have signed him for $51 million, sources confirmed on Wednesday. The deal includes $34 million guaranteed and keeps Baun in Philly after a breakout season.

Baun was set to hit free agency next week, but the Eagles locked him in before other teams could make a move. His new contract makes him one of the highest-paid linebackers in the league, ranking fourth in annual salary among his positions.

From Underrated Signing to Defensive Star

Baun joined the Eagles last season on a one-year, $3.5 million deal, originally expected to be a rotational edge rusher. But under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, he transitioned to an off-ball linebacker and had a career-best season, leading the team with:

• 151 total tackles
• 5 forced fumbles
• 3.5 sacks
• 1 interception & 4 pass breakups

Baun made 33 tackles and grabbed two interceptions in the postseason, including a crucial pick in the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX win over the Kansas City Chiefs.

Eagles GM Howie Roseman rarely spends big on linebackers, choosing to build along the defensive line. But after Baun’s monster season, he admitted keeping him was a must.

“Phenomenal season, first-team All-Pro, top-five defensive player of the year,” Roseman said last month. “Made a huge difference during the regular season, in the playoffs, and the Super Bowl. These are the guys you want to keep.”

Baun’s Rise From New Orleans to Philly

A third-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Baun spent four seasons with the New Orleans Saints, where he mostly played as an edge rusher. He had just 88 total tackles in four years before exploding onto the scene in Philadelphia.

Now, after securing a Super Bowl ring and an All-Pro nod, Baun has locked in a well-earned payday and will remain a key part of the Eagles’ defense for years to come.