The Philadelphia Eagles are once again relying on a duo of linebackers on one-year contracts. Vic Fangio, their defensive coordinator, emphasizes the importance of inside linebackers in today’s game. As training camp progresses, it seems likely that Zack Baun will start alongside Devin White in Fangio’s defense.
Baun, who was signed as a free agent from the New Orleans Saints, has consistently played with the first team alongside White since spring. This trend has continued into August, and it appears set to remain, although the Eagles’ upcoming preseason games, starting Friday night in Baltimore, may provide new insights.
“I feel really comfortable,” said Baun. “The system is familiar to me, and I’m getting more comfortable with each rep and film session. It’s going well.”
While not perfect, Baun’s performance stands out among the limited options. Nakobe Dean could challenge for the position, rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr. might show promise, or Ben VanSumeren could step up.
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A year ago, general manager Howie Roseman was dissatisfied with Nicholas Morrow's performance and Dean’s injury, prompting him to sign Zach Cunningham and Myles Jack, though Jack retired soon after. Cunningham performed well but wasn’t retained and remains a free agent, potentially available if needed.
Fangio expressed mixed feelings about the current linebacker group. “It's been good at times; not so good at other times,” he said. “We need to consistently win battles against running backs. Some guys have been good, others need improvement.”
Fangio, who recently attended the Pro Football Hall of Fame ceremony for his former player Patrick Willis, stressed the increased demands on inside linebackers in modern football. “Every defense relies on high-level production from inside linebackers, especially with the game being played in more space. The ILB position has become more demanding over the past decade. It's hard to play good defense without strong ILB play.”
Roseman is likely aware of Fangio’s comments. In a salary-cap world, every team has positions where they invest fewer resources, and for the Eagles, that position is linebacker. The team will attempt to get by with White and Baun on one-year deals and may reassess their options next year.
Baun, primarily a special teams player with the Saints, has shown toughness and playmaking ability in camp as a blitzer and pass rusher. “Toughness is both physical and mental,” he said. “Once you master the mental side, the rest of your game can develop. It’s something I’ve worked on consistently.”
Devin White praised Baun’s efforts: “Great effort. Pure heart. A person who loves football. He’s relentless and always in the mix. I knew a lot about him from his time with the Saints on special teams. Now, he’s showing his full potential.”
