Zack Baun's Major Investment Marks Eagles' Future Ambitions

The Philadelphia Eagles are riding high after their recent Super Bowl victory, thanks in large part to the remarkable performance of linebacker Zack Baun. Almost overnight, Baun transformed from a special teams ace into one of the top linebackers in the NFL, culminating in a three-year, $51 million contract extension with the Eagles that emphasizes his central role in the team’s defense.

Baun’s re-signing follows a stellar season where he showcased his skills and contributed significantly to the Eagles' championship run. During a recent press conference, he acknowledged that while he was thrilled with his success, he remains focused on improvement. "I think about what we did in one year with so many new pieces, coaches and players included, and I think about my own personal development in that same sense," Baun said. "I look at my highlights sometimes. It’s hard for me and my football mind to look at the highlights, but not think about the plays that I missed during that game or after the game.”

Baun’s ability to reflect on missed opportunities even amid significant victories illustrates his perfectionist attitude. As he stated, "I’m a perfectionist in that way." His commitment to excellence has been a hallmark of his time with the Eagles.

This offseason, the Eagles' defense has gone through notable changes, including losses to standout players like Josh Sweat and Milton Williams, making Baun's retention crucial as the team gears up for another title defense in 2025. Since joining the Eagles on a one-year, $1.6 million deal and excelling in Vic Fangio’s defensive scheme, Baun has proven himself indispensable, ranking ninth in run stop win rate among off-ball linebackers in 2024. He recorded an impressive 151 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and five forced fumbles, also finishing fifth in the Defensive Player of the Year voting.

The Eagles recognized Baun’s contributions, and general manager Howie Roseman's decision to invest heavily in him marks a departure from the team’s history of underestimating the value of off-ball linebackers. "Giving Baun a three-year, $51 million deal (with $34 million guaranteed) sends the message that Roseman is not afraid to break trends," reported an analysis on ESPN. In the context of the wider NFL landscape, such an investment is seen as reasonable; Baun is expected to continue thriving within this defensive framework.

As the Eagles prepare to take their first steps toward a title repeat, Baun’s journey is a testament to the growth opportunities available within the organization. Reflecting on his experiences, Baun expressed gratitude for the environment created by his teammates and coaches in Philadelphia. “What we built here, the culture here, and honestly, now that I’m thinking about it, I was just a piece of the puzzle that was put into a great culture already established,” he noted.

Yet as the Eagles keep one eye on the present, they must also consider their future, particularly regarding the quarterback position. Currently, Jalen Hurts is viewed as the cornerstone of the offense, having achieved remarkable success with two Super Bowl appearances in just four seasons. However, his contract is set to expire in 2028, raising the question of who might succeed him.

Analysts are now suggesting Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe could be that future star. Milroe, who passed for 2,844 yards and 16 touchdowns last season, has been described as a “poor man's Jalen Hurts.” His dual-threat abilities and mobility make him a standout prospect. As Matt Harmon from Yahoo Sports pointed out, “The mobility is real. You could design something out of that.”

The Eagles' current QB depth has come under scrutiny after they traded Kenny Pickett to the Cleveland Browns for Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a 2025 fifth-round pick. This leaves questions about the long-term viability of the quarterback situation, especially since Thompson-Robinson is not seen as a guaranteed solution. With the team's recent problems at the QB position, many are advocating for a backup like Milroe, who can provide the Eagles with a similar skill set to Hurts.

The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft will serve as a significant opportunity for Philadelphia to address this need. With the Eagles holding the 32nd overall pick, there’s speculation they could draft Milroe if he falls to later rounds. If he rises too quickly, a trade-up might be necessary to secure him, providing a smart insurance policy behind a crucial position.

Baun’s recent contract and performance highlight the Eagles’ desire to invest in their current talent while also preparing for the future. As he puts it, “I felt like toward the end of the season, I was playing so confidently that I knew I was going to make a play.” His presence on the field will be essential not just for the upcoming season, but as the organization transitions through potential changes in key positions.

The Eagles are clearly committed to building on their recent success and ensuring they have a team capable of not just competing, but winning. With strategic decisions regarding personnel and a keen eye for emerging talent, their future looks as promising as their present, helping them keep the franchise on the path to greatness.