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Zack Baun (NFL): Contract Breakdown, Career Earnings, NFL Stardom and More

As Zack Baun continues his NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles, the future looks bright. With his proven track record of success and unwavering dedication, there’s no doubt that Baun will continue to make significant contributions on the field

Eagles fans and football enthusiasts alike are eager to see how Baun’s skills and leadership will shape the team’s defense in the coming seasons.

Whether he’s making game-changing tackles, mentoring younger players, or inspiring others through his journey, Zack Baun is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the NFL.

Zack Baun’s contract with the Philadelphia Eagles exemplifies the careful balance between financial security for the player and cap management for the team.

With a guaranteed amount of $3,500,000 and a creative use of void years, the deal reflects the evolving strategies of NFL contract negotiations.

For Baun, the 2024 season represents both an opportunity to contribute to a competitive team and a chance to solidify his value as an impactful linebacker in the league.

Zack Baun
Zack Baun (Image: Source)

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Zack Baun: From Wisconsin Roots to NFL Stardom

Early Life and High School Success

Zack Baun’s journey to the NFL began in the small town of Brown Deer, Wisconsin. Born with a natural athleticism and competitive spirit, Baun excelled in multiple sports during his youth.1

At Brown Deer High School, Baun was a standout not only on the football field but also on the basketball court and track. His diverse athletic background contributed to his agility, speed, and endurance, traits that would later define his football career.

As a quarterback in high school, Baun showcased his versatility and leadership. He passed for an impressive 3,061 yards and 27 touchdowns while also dominating on the ground with 3,923 rushing yards and 67 rushing touchdowns.

These staggering numbers demonstrated his dual-threat capability and earned him recognition as a three-star recruit by Rivals and ESPN. Despite offers from other schools, Baun chose to stay close to home and committed to the University of Wisconsin in 2016.

College Career at the University of Wisconsin

Baun transitioned to linebacker at Wisconsin, a move that would shape his future in football. As a freshman in 2016, he played in 12 games, recording 15 total tackles.

However, his progress was temporarily halted when he sustained a foot injury during the preseason, forcing him to miss the entire 2017 season. The setback proved to be a turning point, as Baun returned stronger and more determined than ever.

In 2018, Baun emerged as a key player for the Badgers. Playing as an outside linebacker, he showcased his ability to read plays, rush the quarterback, and make crucial tackles.

He ended the season as the team’s third-leading tackler, recording 37 solo tackles. By his senior year in 2019, Baun had developed into one of the nation’s top linebackers.

His breakout season included 12.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss, earning him First-Team All-Big Ten honors and a spot on the All-American Second Team. His stellar performance in college solidified his status as a top prospect for the NFL Draft.

Zack Baun
Zack Baun (Image: Source)

Zack Baun: NFL Career

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Baun’s impressive college career caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in the 2020 NFL Draft, he was selected 74th overall by the New Orleans Saints in the third round.2

The Saints saw potential in Baun’s versatility and athleticism, traits that aligned well with their defensive scheme.

In his rookie season, Baun appeared in 15 games and started three. While adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL, he recorded 12 combined tackles, including 7 solo tackles.

Though his role was limited in his first year, Baun’s work ethic and determination were evident to coaches and teammates alike.

Growth and Development with the Saints

Over the next three seasons, Baun gradually carved out a larger role in the Saints’ defense.

He became known for his ability to contribute in various defensive situations, whether it was stopping the run, covering tight ends, or rushing the quarterback.

By the end of his tenure with the Saints, Baun had appeared in 62 games, accumulating 239 combined tackles and 153 solo tackles. His consistency and reliability made him a valuable asset to the team.

One of Baun’s standout moments with the Saints came in the 2022 season, where he recorded a career-high 84 tackles. His performance that year demonstrated his growth as a player and solidified his reputation as a dependable linebacker in the league.

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A New Chapter with the Philadelphia Eagles

In 2024, Baun entered free agency and signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his NFL career.

The Eagles, known for their aggressive and dynamic defense, saw Baun as a perfect fit for their system. His versatility and experience made him an ideal addition to the team’s linebacker corps.

Baun’s debut with the Eagles has been met with high expectations. As of the 2024 NFL season, he has appeared in 78 career games, recording 239 combined tackles and 153 solo tackles.

Eagles fans are excited to see how Baun’s skill set will contribute to the team’s success in the years to come.

Zack Baun
Zack Baun (Image: Source)

Zack Baun: Playing Style and Strengths

Baun’s playing style is defined by his versatility and football IQ. As a linebacker, he has the unique ability to excel in multiple roles.3

Whether he’s dropping back in coverage, rushing the passer, or stopping the run, Baun consistently demonstrates a high level of awareness and athleticism.

One of Baun’s greatest strengths is his speed. His background as a high school quarterback and track athlete is evident in his ability to cover ground quickly and close in on ball carriers.

Additionally, his experience as a quarterback gives him a unique perspective on reading offensive plays, allowing him to anticipate and react effectively.

Baun is also known for his relentless work ethic and commitment to improvement. Coaches and teammates have often praised his dedication to studying film, refining his techniques, and maintaining peak physical condition.

These qualities have not only helped him succeed on the field but also earned him respect in the locker room.

Challenges and Resilience

  • Like any professional athlete, Baun has faced his share of challenges. From the foot injury that sidelined him in college to the initial adjustment period in the NFL, Baun has had to overcome obstacles at every stage of his career.
  • However, his resilience and determination have been key factors in his ability to bounce back stronger each time.
  • Baun’s journey is a testament to the importance of perseverance and adaptability. His ability to navigate setbacks and continue to grow as a player serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and fans alike.
  • Off the field, Baun is known for his humility and down-to-earth personality.
  • Despite his success, he has remained connected to his roots in Wisconsin and often gives back to his community.
  • Baun has participated in youth football camps and charity events, using his platform to make a positive impact.
  • In his free time, Baun enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying active, and exploring new hobbies.
  • His well-rounded approach to life reflects his belief in the importance of balance and maintaining a strong support system.
Zack Baun
Zack Baun

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Zack Baun’s Contract Breakdown

In March 2024, Zack Baun signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, valued at $3.5 million.

This deal, reported by Spotrac, includes a substantial signing bonus of $2,375,000, a guaranteed amount of $3,500,000, and an average annual salary of $3,500,000.

The structure of his contract offers financial security and flexibility for the team.

The contract includes void years to spread out the cap hit, a strategic move by the Eagles to manage their salary cap while maximizing flexibility.

Salary Breakdown

Zack Baun’s one-year contract guarantees him an average annual salary of $3,500,000. For the 2024 season, his earnings are structured as follows:

  • Base Salary: $1,125,000
  • Cap Hit: $1,600,000
  • Dead Cap Value: $3,500,000

With the signing bonus factored in, Baun’s total cash earnings for 2024 will amount to $4,000,000.

Breaking his earnings into smaller units highlights the lucrative nature of his contract. Based on his total guaranteed amount of $3,500,000, Zack Baun earns approximately $6.60 per minute, regardless of whether he is on the field or off it.

Zack Baun
Zack Baun

Zack Baun’s Career Earnings

As of January 2025, Zack Baun has accumulated total career earnings of $8.78 million over five years, according to Spotrac.

His earnings reflect a steady progression in his NFL career, starting with his rookie deal and culminating in his current contract with the Eagles.

Contract History

New Orleans Saints (2020-2023)

Zack Baun began his professional football career with the New Orleans Saints, who selected him in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

He signed a three-year rookie contract worth $4.8 million, which included a signing bonus of $1.05 million. The entire signing bonus was guaranteed, ensuring financial stability at the outset of his career.

 

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Key Details of Baun’s Rookie Contract:

  • Total Value: $4.8 million
  • Signing Bonus: $1.05 million
  • Guaranteed Money: $1.05 million

Over his three seasons with the Saints, Baun developed into a versatile linebacker, showcasing his ability to adapt to different defensive schemes.

Philadelphia Eagles (2024-Present)

In 2024, Zack Baun transitioned to the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year deal. This contract not only increased his guaranteed earnings but also provided an opportunity to demonstrate his value on a new team.

The Eagles’ investment in Baun reflects their confidence in his abilities and potential to contribute significantly to their defense.

Analyzing the Signing Bonus

Baun’s 2024 signing bonus of $2,375,000 constitutes a significant portion of his total guaranteed amount.

Signing bonuses are typically structured to provide players with immediate financial benefits while allowing teams to spread the cap hit over multiple years.

In Baun’s case, the inclusion of void years minimizes the immediate cap impact, a common tactic in modern NFL contracts.

The Eagles’ use of void years in Baun’s contract highlights their strategic approach to managing the salary cap.

By prorating the signing bonus over five years (including void years), they limit Baun’s 2024 cap hit to $1,600,000, leaving additional cap space for other roster needs.

However, the void years also create dead cap charges in subsequent seasons, including $1,900,000 in 2025.

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  1. badgerswire.usatoday
  2. phl17
  3. newsbreak
Kankana Biswas
Kankana Biswas

I'm a strategic journalism graduate with expertise on socio-political issues, business, and finance. I'm a self-made entrepreneur, and have contributed to various news/media outlets since 2015. I also received degree of journalism from the Delhi College of Arts and Commerce.

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