There isn't a greater success story over the last two years in the NFL than Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun.
As once thought of as a career backup, Baun has become one of the league's best linebackers in 2024 and 2025. ESPN NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler has further proof of that after surveying league executives, coaches, and scouts. This survey ranked the NFL's best off-ball linebackers, with Baun ranking fourth, though his highest individual ranking in the league was third.
"He's got lateral quickness and is an incredibly smart player," an NFL personnel evaluator said about Baun. "He's perfect for Vic's [Fangio] scheme, can play close to the line and get pressure or can play off the ball."
Zack Baun continues to impress the NFL with his play on the field
Last season, Baun made his second straight Pro Bowl after racking up 123 tackles, seven tackles for loss, seven pass deflections, five quarterback hits, 3.5 sacks, two interceptions, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in 16 games. Fowler added that Baun was the only player last season with at least 120 tackles and 10 disrupted dropbacks (the last stat is defined as a sack, interception, or a batted/defended/tipped pass).
Baun has continued to show the NFL why he is one of the league's best defenders. His ability to do it all in Fangio's defense is why he has been successful. Fangio wants versatile linebackers who can do whatever is being asked of them, and Baun certainly can, from pass coverage to blitzing the quarterback.
Another interesting note from Fowler's article is that fellow Eagles linebacker Jihaad Campbell received some votes and was an honorable mention among the NFL's best at the position. Campbell's rookie season went well, as he finished with 80 tackles, three pass deflections, two tackles for loss, one quarterback hit, one interception, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in 17 games.
With Nakobe Dean gone and playing for the Las Vegas Raiders, Campbell will be joining Baun in the starting lineup in 2026. The pair should work well together, as Baun is the veteran captain of the defense, while Campbell is a developing talent who can learn a lot from playing alongside Baun.
Read more: Eagles veteran may make the final depth chart conversation more complicated
The Eagles have seen zero signs that Baun is slowing down and appears to be just as good as he was when he joined the team in 2024. Philly hopes to see more of that success from him in a big season for the franchise.
Add us as a preferred source on Google