Zack Baun

Career StatsB+

Year	Team	GP	Tkl	Sacks	INT
Career		94	362	9.0	4
2025		16	123	3.5	2
2024		16	151	3.5	1
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

Zack Baun drew a C+ on the Contract Value Index — a calibrated read on Philadelphia's cap allocation at linebacker. At $17M annually over three years, Baun occupies the mid-tier starter salary band, and the math here is straightforward: he is a reliable, above-average performer whose 2025 production of 123 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions across 16 games aligns with that tier, but he is not commanding a discount or overpaying the Eagles either. The linebacker market has shifted upward in recent years, and mid-tier starters in Fangio's scheme typically land in this range, making the deal fair value rather than a bargain or an obvious overpay. At 29 years old with six seasons of NFL experience, Baun is in the stable middle of his career arc — the three-year term locks in his prime contributor window without excessive downside risk, though it also offers no upside surprise if he elevates to All-Pro status. The Eagles' recent offseason moves—adding pass-rush depth and secondary reinforcements around him—signal organizational confidence in his role as a core defensive anchor, which validates the contract's placement but does not create value beyond fair market price. The C+ grade reflects exactly that: solid production at market rate, no leverage for the team on either side, and a deal that works for both parties without creating notable cap relief or imposing future constraints that would make it a long-term anchor.

Contracts in the Same Value Band

Other same-position deals the Contract Value Index also places in the C band — a quick read on where Zack's contract sits relative to comparable money.

Performance Analysis

Zack Baun, a six-year veteran linebacker now in his prime at 29, has established himself as a reliable defensive anchor for Philadelphia. The Wisconsin product has appeared in 94 career games and recently earned a B+ grade, positioning him squarely in the upper-middle tier of NFL linebackers. His 2024 campaign validated his ability to impact games at a high level, though this season has shown modest regression as the Eagles navigate a competitive defensive landscape. Baun's elite tackle production stands out immediately—averaging 7.69 per game, significantly above the NFL average of 2.19 and nearly matching the elite threshold of 7.32. His pass defense metrics (0.44 per game) and tackles for loss (0.47 per game) both exceed league averages, demonstrating versatility in coverage and run defense. The one area where he remains merely average is sack production at 0.22 per game, trailing the elite standard of 0.51, suggesting his value stems from consistency and positioning rather than disruptive penetration. The trajectory tells a nuanced story: after a strong B+ showing in 2024, Baun has dipped to a B-rated 2025 season. However, this current-year snapshot shouldn't overshadow a body of work that's proven durable and dependable. His resilience and football intelligence suggest he remains capable of returning to form if the Eagles' defensive scheme or health circumstances shift favorably. Monitor his tackling efficiency and coverage assignments heading into 2026—elite production from Baun typically signals playoff-caliber linebacker play in Philadelphia's system.

How Zack Compares at the Position

Zack Baun ranks 36th of 339 graded linebackers by performance. That slots Zack between Devin Bush (B+) just ahead and Quay Walker (B+) just behind.

Current Sentiment

Zack Baun has established himself as a dependable defensive anchor for the Philadelphia Eagles, earning consistent praise from both media and fan bases following two consecutive strong seasons. While he lacks Pro Bowl or All-Pro accolades that would elevate him to elite status, his $17M annual contract reflects the team's confidence in his role as a core starter. Recent coverage has been notably positive, with multiple outlets highlighting his upward trajectory in linebacker rankings and his growing reputation as one of the NFL's underrated defensive talents. The consensus narrative suggests Baun is finally receiving the recognition he deserves after years of solid, unspectacular production—a player whose impact may exceed his individual stat line. Heading into 2026, media perception positions him as a respected, mid-tier starter whose value to the Eagles' defense is well-established, though he remains outside the conversation of elite pass-rushers at his position.