He's not a household name. You probably never heard of him until reading this story. However, ESPN ranks the Philadelphia Eagles re-signing of linebacker Zack Baun as an "A" rated signing and perhaps the best move the Eagles made this offseason.
The Eagles guaranteed him $34 million. It's a far cry from the one-year deal he played on last season which was worth a mere pittance of what he is earning now. His $1.6 million salary has gone up exponentially.
“The Eagles signing Baun to a one-year, $1.6 million deal, converting him to an off-ball linebacker and then getting a near-Defensive Player of the Year performance, is one of the best transactions and development coaching jobs you'll see in the NFL,” ESPN's Seth Walder said. “Now it's time for the Eagles to pay market rate (or in this case, perhaps less) for Baun. And he's worth it.”
Baun did not put up spectacular statistics which are read on SportsCenter. He only had one interception to show for his many reps. He was just always there, always in on the play.
“He did that while allowing 0.6 yards per coverage snap, sixth best among linebackers,” Walder wrote. “He ranked ninth in run stop win rate among off-ball linebackers with at least 10 starts (41%). And he forced five fumbles and recorded 3.5 sacks. He even recorded another forced fumble and two more picks in the playoffs, including one in the Super Bowl. And he finished fifth in Defensive Player of the Year voting.”
Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said to USA TODAY Baun is a real difference maker.
“Obviously he's had a great year,” Fangio said during the playoffs. “I think exceeded most everyone's expectations, probably even himself. But now there (are) no limitations. He's set a standard for himself. He's got to show up and do it every week. If you put limits on them, you’ll get limited production. Take them to the ceiling that they can go to. (Baun) is playing really good, and we’re thrilled to have him.”
