Last month, PFF speculated that Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun might land with the Washington Commanders in free agency this offseason. However, following Baun’s standout first-half performance in Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs, his market value likely just went up.
With under two minutes left in the second quarter, the Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, had a 1st-and-10 from their own six-yard line. Mahomes took the snap but ended up throwing an interception directly into Baun’s hands at the Kansas City 14-yard line.
That play continued an impressive postseason streak for Baun, as he recorded either a fumble recovery or an interception in all four of Philadelphia’s playoff games. The postseason is when top players make their mark, and Baun certainly showcased his value over the last few weeks.
After starting just 14 games in his first four NFL seasons, Baun was a bargain pickup for Philadelphia last offseason, signing a one-year, $3.5 million contract. But after his breakout season, he won’t come nearly as cheap when free agency opens in a few weeks.
Before the Super Bowl, Spotrac estimated Baun’s market value at an average annual salary of $9.7 million, a figure that could rise even higher by the time free agency begins in March.
The 2024 season was Baun’s first as a full-time starting linebacker, and he made the most of it—earning both a Pro Bowl selection and a spot on the All-Pro First Team. While he would be a valuable addition to Washington’s defense, the Commanders must decide if they’re willing to pay the price to bring him in.
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