The Philadelphia Eagles have been rewarding players this offseason for last year’s success. On Tuesday, running back Saquon Barkley got an extension, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history. It was well-deserved, as he rushed for over 2,000 yards and was the offense’s focal point. On Wednesday, the front office shifted its attention to the defensive side of the ball. All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun has signed a three-year extension, keeping him in Philadelphia for the foreseeable future.
Philadelphia Eagles Re-Sign Zack Baun
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the deal is a three-year, $51 million extension. There is an additional $1.5 million in incentives and escalators depending on his performance. Baun was a key offseason signing last year, signing a one-year prove-it deal after spending time with the New Orleans Saints. Prove it; he did. He racked up 151 total tackles, with 93 of them being solo. He added 3.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, four passes defended, and an interception.
He didn’t shy away from the spotlight in the playoffs. The defense dominated the Kansas City Chiefs from start to finish. His performance in 2024 earned the former Wisconsin Badger first-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl nod. Last week, reports indicated the Philadelphia Eagles may have difficulty re-signing Baun due to the high demand. However, the front office made it a priority and made him one of the highest-paid linebackers in the league.
2025 Outlook
The Philadelphia Eagles will be a tough out in the NFC next year. On offense, the combination of Jalen Hurts, AJ Brown, Devonta Smith, and Barkley is still one of the most deadly in the league. Defensively, the Eagles haven’t lost much, either. Darius Slay was a cap casualty, but Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean had promising rookie seasons, making the loss of a veteran easier.
Two years ago, the defense couldn’t stop anyone. Now, the team has one of the best units in the league and shows no sign of slowing down. The offense becomes even more dangerous when it is difficult to score. Zack Baun is entering the prime of his career, and the Eagles also have a plethora of young pass rushers. They have set themselves up to compete for championships in the foreseeable future.
Final Thoughts
A tip of the hat to the Philadelphia Eagles. They have rewarded the players who got them a championship. Outside of a few more players, the Eagles have taken care of many of the big question marks of the offseason. Can they win back-to-back Super Bowls next year with all the talent in the NFC?
