### Eagles Secure All-Pro Linebacker Zack Baun with Record-Breaking Contract The Philadelphia Eagles have made a significant move in the NFL offseason by re-signing linebacker Zack Baun to a lucrative three-year contract worth $51 million. This deal comes after Baun's standout performance during the 2024 season, where he played a pivotal role in the Eagles' Super Bowl victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Baun's contract includes $34 million guaranteed, making him one of the highest-paid linebackers in the league. His return is seen as a crucial step for the Eagles as they aim to defend their championship title in the upcoming season [https://www.si.com/college/wisconsin/football/former-wisconsin-star-lands-massive-new-nfl-contract-01jnqcxyjrkv][https://sports.yahoo.com/article/philadelphia-eagles-sign-former-wisconsin-193907563.html]. ### Breakdown of the Contract and Baun's Impact 1. **Contract Details**: - Baun signed a three-year deal worth **$51 million**. - The contract includes **$34 million** guaranteed at signing and an additional **$1.5 million** in incentives [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6172813/2025/03/05/eagles-zack-baun-resign-contract-free-agency][https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/eagles-re-signing-zack-baun-to-three-year-51-million-deal-after-all-pro-season-per-report]. 2. **Performance Highlights**: - In the 2024 season, Baun recorded **151 tackles**, **3.5 sacks**, **five forced fumbles**, and **one interception** across **16 games** [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/all_pro_linebacker_signs_contract_with_philadelphia_eagles/s1_17198_41857578]. - His performance earned him **First-Team All-Pro** honors and a key role in the Eagles' Super Bowl win [https://www.espn.co.uk/nfl/story/_/id/44123827/sources-eagles-re-sign-zack-baun-3-year-51m-deal]. 3. **Strategic Importance**: - Baun's re-signing prevents him from entering free agency, which was a priority for the Eagles as they look to maintain their competitive edge [https://www.reuters.com/sports/reports-eagles-re-signing-zack-baun-3-year-51m-deal-2025-03-05]. - His contract reflects the Eagles' commitment to retaining key players who contributed to their recent success [https://www.pennlive.com/philadelphiaeagles/2025/03/eagles-sign-first-team-all-pro-linebacker-at-a-much-steeper-price-than-a-year-ago.html]. ### Supporting Evidence of Baun's Value - **Statistical Performance**: - **Tackles**: 151 - **Sacks**: 3.5 - **Forced Fumbles**: 5 - **Interceptions**: 1 - **Games Played**: 16 (all starts) [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/eagles_re_signing_lb_zack_baun_to_three_year_51m_deal/s1_17039_41857648]. - **Contract Comparisons**: - Baun's average annual salary of **$17 million** places him among the top linebackers in the NFL, highlighting the Eagles' investment in their defense [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/news/zack-baun-contract-details-eagles-star-agrees-51m-deal-one-nfls-highest-paid-linebackers/718249ed302869c503f77d58]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for the Eagles In summary, the Philadelphia Eagles' decision to re-sign Zack Baun to a **three-year, $51 million** contract is a strategic move aimed at bolstering their defense as they prepare for the next NFL season. Baun's impressive performance last season, which included significant contributions to the team's Super Bowl victory, justifies the investment. The contract not only secures a key player but also reflects the Eagles' commitment to maintaining a competitive roster as they aim for back-to-back championships. 1. **Contract Significance**: Baun's deal is a major financial commitment, indicating his value to the team. 2. **Performance Metrics**: His standout statistics from the previous season support the decision to retain him. 3. **Future Implications**: Keeping Baun off the free-agent market is crucial for the Eagles' defensive strategy moving forward [https://www.abc27.com/sports/sports-illustrated/37baf540/eagles-make-contract-decision-on-all-pro-linebacker-zack-baun-after-breakout-season].