Much has been made about the Philadelphia Eagles strong free agent class last season with running back Saquon Barkley considered the top of the overall group.
Linebacker Zack Baun may have something to say about that, though.
The former New Orleans Saint signed a one-year deal worth just under $4 million last season and put up a First-Team All-Pro year and was arguably the Eagles best defensive player in 2024-25 - especially come playoff time.
Baun's historic first season with the Eagles left the organization no choice. Philadelphia quickly extended the veteran to a three-year deal worth $51 million before he hit free agency.
Now a healthily-paid man, Baun made it clear in his press conference this week that a return to Philly was always his top choice.
"I really actually didn't want to leave," Baun said. "What we built here, the culture here. Honestly, now that I'm thinking about it, I was just a piece of the puzzle that was put into a great culture that was already established.
"The people that work here, the system's in place. Just everything I felt here this past year. It just felt right for me and my family. I really didn't want to leave, and I appreciated everything we built."
Baun recorded over 150 tackles last season with 3.5 sacks, and five forced fumbles throughout the year. As he continued through his career season, though, it was made clear to him that general manager Howie Roseman was never going to let him leave.
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"It was all year long (that) he constantly reassured me, not necessarily that I'd be back, but he was very thankful for the things I was doing, and my play on the field," Baun explained. "After the season, there was a lot of back and forth between my agent, just hoping to get something done as soon as possible. I'm happy we did, and that I didn't have to go through free agency and see what that was like."
Baun is back in Philadelphia - to the joy of the veteran linebacker, coaches, and fans. Now, the difficult part for the 28-year-old will be sustaining his top play over the years now.
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This story was originally published March 21, 2025 at 10:01 AM.