40 Facts About Zack Baun

Early Life and High School Achievements

Zack Baun's journey to the NFL began in Wisconsin, where he showcased his athletic prowess in multiple sports. His early years set the foundation for his future success.

1. Birthdate and Age: Zack Baun was born on December 30, 1996, making him 27 years old as of September 2024.

2. Birthplace: Baun grew up in West Bend, Wisconsin, before moving to Brown Deer, Wisconsin, during his sophomore year of high school.

3. High School Career: At Brown Deer High School, Baun was a standout athlete in multiple sports. He was the top senior quarterback in the state, passing for 1,936 yards and 20 touchdowns, and rushing for 1,837 yards and 39 touchdowns.

4. Multi-Sport Athlete: Baun was not only an excellent quarterback but also a state champion basketball player and a track athlete, placing in the Division II state track championship in both the 100 meter and 200 meter dashes.

5. High School Basketball Career: At Brown Deer High School, Baun was a starter for the 2013 WIAA Division II State Championship team. His basketball skills were so impressive that he was named one of the top 50 basketball players in the state after his sophomore year.

6. Football Transition: Baun transitioned from playing wide receiver at West Bend East High School to quarterback and linebacker at Brown Deer. His versatility and athleticism made him a standout in multiple sports.

7. Coaching Influence: Rob Green, Baun's football coach at Brown Deer, recalled the first day he saw Baun play basketball. Green was impressed by Baun's explosive power and speed, which he believed could translate well to football.

8. Football Camp Experience: Baun's football coach at Brown Deer introduced himself to Baun and explained the type of football they played. Baun was initially hesitant but eventually agreed to join the football camp. This decision marked the beginning of his successful football career.

9. High School Football Achievements: In two seasons at Brown Deer, Baun led the team to the state playoffs each year and accounted for 94 touchdowns – 28 rushing and seven passing as a junior, and 39 rushing and 20 passing as a senior.

College Career at Wisconsin

Baun's college years at the University of Wisconsin were marked by both challenges and triumphs. His dedication and resilience helped him become a standout linebacker.

10. College Commitment: Baun committed to play college football at the University of Wisconsin with the intention of gray shirting his freshman year due to a broken foot.

11. Redshirt Freshman Season: Baun redshirted his true freshman season after breaking his left foot going into the season. He appeared in 12 games as a redshirt freshman, making 15 tackles (3.5 for loss) with a forced fumble.

12. Redshirt Sophomore Season: Baun missed the entirety of his redshirt sophomore season after re-injuring his left foot during spring practices.

13. Redshirt Junior Season: Baun was named a starter at outside linebacker for the Badgers going into his redshirt junior season. He finished the season as the team's third-leading tackler with 63 stops (7.5 for a loss) with 2.5 sacks, 3 pass breakups, one interception, and a fumble recovery.

14. Redshirt Senior Season: Baun entered his redshirt senior season on the watchlist for the Butkus Award and was voted to be a team captain. He was named midseason All-American by the Associated Press and Sporting News after leading the Badgers in sacks (6), tackles for loss (10.5), and forced fumbles (2) through the first six games of the season.

15. Statistical Achievements: Baun finished the 2019 season with 76 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 12.5 sacks, earning him first-team All-Big Ten and first-team All-American honors.

16. Production in College: In his final season at Wisconsin, Baun led the team in solo tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks from an edge rushing position. He was a pass-rushing threat and one of the leaders of the Wisconsin defense.

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Baun's transition to the NFL began with his selection by the New Orleans Saints. His early years in the league were a mix of learning and showcasing his skills.

17. NFL Draft Selection: Baun was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the third round with the 74th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

18. NFL Debut: Baun made his NFL debut on September 21, 2020, on Monday Night Football against the Las Vegas Raiders, playing on special teams.

19. Career with Saints: During his time with the Saints, Baun played a career-high 301 snaps on defense in 2022, nearly as much as his first three seasons combined. He recorded 27 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, and an interception.

20. Injury in 2022: On December 17, 2022, Baun was placed on season-ending injured reserve with a calf injury he had suffered in Week 9 against the Baltimore Ravens.

Joining the Philadelphia Eagles

In 2024, Baun signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, marking a new chapter in his professional career. His versatility and experience make him a valuable addition to the team.

21. Signing with Eagles: On March 13, 2024, Baun signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.

22. First Day as an Eagle: On his first official day as a Philadelphia Eagle, Baun toured the NovaCare Complex wearing sneakers with a Kelly Green trim. He was greeted by former Eagles linebacker and current Director of Player Development Connor Barwin, who reminded him of their visit at the Senior Bowl prior to the 2020 NFL Draft.

23. Signing Process: Once inside the Draft Room, Baun inked his deal and reflected on the road to getting where he is today. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to start a new chapter in his career.

24. Culture of Philadelphia Eagles: Baun chose the Eagles on the first day of free agency because of the culture of the organization and the city. He appreciates the gritty city and passionate fans who love the team and sports.

Athletic Profile and Skills

Baun's athleticism and skills have been key to his success on the field. His speed, agility, and versatility make him a formidable linebacker.

25. Height and Weight: Baun stands at 6'2 3/8" and weighs 238 pounds.

26. Athletic Profile: His athletic profile includes a 40-yard dash time of 4.65 seconds, a broad jump of 9'7", a vertical jump of 32.5 inches, and a 3-cone drill time of 7.00 seconds.

27. Speed and Agility: Baun's speed and agility are notable, although his testing results were slightly surprising given his on-field performance. His change of direction skills and balance are outstanding.

28. Explosion: Baun's explosion is average, and he was on the lower end of those who participated in the combine in this area. He focused on improving his vertical and broad jumps at his pro day.

29. Run Defense: While not an overpowering run defender, Baun is an assignment sound one who understands how to play angles. He can often put opponents at a disadvantage due to his athleticism and ability to process information quickly.

30. Pass Rushing Ability: Baun is an excellent pass rusher, relying on his speed, flexibility, and quickness. He can run the arc, dip, and duck under opposing blockers while showcasing the bend to get to the quarterback. His inside rushing moves are also effective, enabling him to blow up some running plays and get to the quarterback.

31. Coverage Skills: In coverage, Baun is only asked to play in zone coverage. His drops are fantastic, and he is quicker than a substantial number of true off-ball linebackers. His ability to backpedal, open, and run makes him a threat in this area of the game. He does a nice job of reading the quarterback's eyes while staying active and understanding passing concepts.

32. Versatility: The combination of his ability to drop and his threat as a pass rusher gives the defense multiple options in terms of how to pressure opponents. He draws eyes of the opponent and creates opportunities for teammates attacking from other angles.

Personal Life and Philosophy

Baun's personal life and philosophy on opportunity reflect his dedication and motivation. His family and experiences shape his approach to football and life.

33. Personal Life: Baun and his wife, Ali, are expecting their first child, a son, next month. This new chapter in his life adds to his motivation to support his family and build a lasting legacy.

34. Philosophy on Opportunity: Baun believes that taking advantage of opportunities is crucial. He reflects on how he was given the chance to play for a great team and organization, which he seized with his hard work and dedication.

Career Highlights and Legacy

Baun's career highlights showcase his achievements and impact on the field. His dedication and versatility have made him a standout player in both college and the NFL.

35. Career Highlights: Baun's career highlights include being named the first consensus All-American linebacker in Wisconsin history, being a consensus first-team All-Big Ten selection, and participating in the 2020 Reese's Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine.

36. Legacy and Future: As Baun continues his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, he is focused on building a lasting legacy and supporting his family. His dedication to football and his ability to seize opportunities have made him a standout player in both college and the NFL.

37. Game Film Analysis: Baun shows tremendous intelligence and attention to detail on the field. He excels in doing the little things correctly, understanding his responsibilities, and playing to the echo of the whistle. His relentless effort often leads to making plays almost entirely on his own.

38. Injury History: Baun suffered a broken foot as a sophomore that forced him to miss the 2017 season. He also re-injured his left foot during spring practices in his redshirt sophomore season.

39. First Consensus All-American: Baun became the first consensus All-American linebacker in Wisconsin history, a testament to his outstanding performance and dedication.

40. NFL Combine Performance: At the NFL Combine, Baun performed well in various drills. His 40-yard dash time was 4.65 seconds, his broad jump was 9'7", his vertical jump was 32.5 inches, and his 3-cone drill time was 7.00 seconds.

Zack Baun's Remarkable Journey

Zack Baun's path from a multi-sport high school athlete to a professional NFL linebacker is nothing short of inspiring. His versatility, dedication, and relentless effort have defined his career. From his standout performances at Brown Deer High School to his impressive college career at Wisconsin, Baun has consistently demonstrated his athletic prowess. His transition to the NFL, first with the New Orleans Saints and now with the Philadelphia Eagles, showcases his adaptability and determination. Baun's ability to excel in various roles on the field, whether as a pass rusher or in coverage, makes him a valuable asset to any team. As he continues to build his legacy with the Eagles, Baun remains focused on supporting his family and making a lasting impact in the NFL. His story is a testament to hard work and seizing opportunities.