Patriots on the Brink of a Free Agency Coup: Landing Eagles’ All-Pro Would Be the Biggest Steal of the Offseason
The New England Patriots could target one of the biggest heroes of Super Bowl LIX this offseason.
Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun is headed for free agency, and the veteran made a critical interception in the Super Bowl on Sunday.
Baun picked off Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes with 1:49 left in the second quarter to set up another score for a 24-0 lead.
Is he a fit? Without a doubt.
“If Mike Vrabel is looking to bring in a versatile linebacker with a knack for delivering momentum-shifting plays, Zach Baun stands as the obvious target — with the 28-year-old veteran expected to land a hefty contract in the coming months,” Boston.com’s Conor Ryan wrote on Tuesday.
“One of the top value signings in recent memory, Baun signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Eagles in March 2024 after earning limited reps with the Saints from 2020-23,” Ryan added.
Spotrac projects Baun for $9.7 million annually or a two-year, $19.49 million deal. New England can easily afford Baun amid a league-best salary cap of $123.79 million, and the former Wisconsin standout fits the old Patriots mold from the dynasty days.
“Much like Vrabel’s career trajectory after signing with New England, Baun immediately developed into a playmaking force for Philly — earning First Team All-Pro honors as a key cog on the Eagles’ defense,” Ryan wrote.
As Ryan pointed out, it would help tremendously with linebacker depth. The Patriots will have Ja’Whaun Bentley back from injury after he missed much of the 2024 season.
“Baun led the way for the Eagles this season with 152 total tackles — while also adding 2.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, 2.5 sacks, and one interception,” Ryan wrote.
