Former Saints LB Baun agrees to $51 million extension with Eagles

By Ross Jackson

From New Orleans Saints special teams asset to one of the highest paid NFL linebackers, Zach Baun just keeps on winning since his departure from the Crescent City. 

Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Baun and the Philadelphia Eagles have agreed upon a three-year, $51 million contract extension. 

Breaking: Eagles are re-signing All-Pro LB Zack Baun to a three-year, $51 million contract, including $34 million guaranteed at signing and additional $1.5 million in incentives and escalators, per sources. The contract instantly makes Baun one of the highest-paid LBs in the NFL. pic.twitter.com/n7zkzIgwcD

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 5, 2025

Baun’s time in New Orleans came to end as his rookie deal expired and despite the team’s apparent attempts to retain him, he wisely chose to test free agency. A choice that has paid dividends (literally) for the former Wisconsin Badger. 

During his Saints tenure, Baun’s roles and responsibilities didn’t seem to be a fit for him while in former coach Dennis Allen’s defense. After landing with Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, the linebacker has now found a long-term home in a comfortable system where he has been remarkably productive. 

He had been reduced to a special teams role in New Orleans but went on to be a defensive player of the year candidate and Super Bowl champion with the Eagles. 

Now, he’ll be one of the highest paid linebackers in the league and therefore one of the biggest “what ifs” in the Saints’ recent history.