A year ago, Zack Baun was an unknown quantity after joining the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year, \$1.6 million contract. Baun, who had been primarily a special-teams contributor for the New Orleans Saints, wasn’t expected to be a star. However, his performance as a full-time starter in his first year with the Eagles proved everyone wrong.
Baun quickly became one of the NFL’s top linebackers, registering impressive stats, including 151 combined tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 5 quarterback hits, 5 forced fumbles, 4 pass deflections, 3.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. His pivotal role helped the Eagles reach the Super Bowl, where they triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Given his standout performance, the Eagles secured Baun’s services with a three-year, \$51 million contract extension, including \$34 million guaranteed. While some may focus on the total value of the deal, the guaranteed money and the average annual value (AAV) are the real highlights. Baun’s AAV is just \$17 million, making it a much more favorable deal than Minnesota Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel’s recent contract extension.
Van Ginkel, who had a stellar season with 79 tackles, 11.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions, was rewarded with a one-year, \$23 million extension that includes \$22.4 million guaranteed. While Van Ginkel’s performance was impressive, the Vikings’ decision to offer him such a hefty raise carries significant risk. If Van Ginkel fails to replicate his success in 2025, the Vikings could be on the hook for \$23 million in 2026.
In contrast, Baun’s contract is more manageable for the Eagles, with cash obligations spread out more evenly over the next few years. If Baun continues his Pro Bowl-level play, his deal will look even more like a bargain down
the line.