As we all come down from the Super Bowl high, the conversation of free agency for the Philadelphia Eagles gets louder. One of the biggest names and newest Philly icons is the emergence of Zack Baun.
The Eagles never seem to prioritize the linebacker position. Philly has been through some lean years at the position, but Zack Baun was a breath of fresh air in 2024. Baun was an afterthought signing in March but became a critical piece in this historic year. Baun tallied up 151 tackles, 3 1/2 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, 11 tackles for loss, and an interception this season. His name was constantly in the conversation for DPOY.
The Eagles have just under $14M in effective cap space, currently the 21st lowest (27th in 2026 cap space and 32nd in 2027 cap space). The Eagles have very little wiggle room to create more cap space. General manager Howie Roseman will really have to put on his dancing shoes to try to keep some key pieces.
2025 NFL Linebacker Free Agents Not Named Zack Baun
Dre Greenlaw is among the top-rated free-agent linebackers. He has completed his contract with the San Francisco 49ers. Eagles fans might recall Greenlaw from his encounter with Eagles security superstar Big Dom DiSandro in 2023 on the sidelines. Greenlaw spent much of last season focusing on his recovery after his Achilles injury during the 49ers' Super Bowl run in 2023. This could be another prove-it deal as Greenlaw seeks to regain his form following his injury.
Nick Bolton is another option in the linebacker free agency market. He was on the other side of the field during the Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs. The 24-year-old two-time Super Bowl champ will be a hot commodity on the market. Bolton has some impressive stats, including 458 total tackles and 32 tackles for loss over his career. The problem for the Eagles is they will not be able to compete with more cap-space-friendly teams. He is projected at a four-year, $60 million deal, making him one of the highest-paid linebackers in the league.
Bobby Wagner could be an interesting addition to Philly. In 2024, he thrice saw the Eagles in action while playing for the Washington Commanders. Wagner is entering his 14th season and remains one of the league’s most savvy and consistent defenders. He has recorded three consecutive seasons of 91.0-plus grades against the run and seemingly still has more football in his veins. With his veteran leadership, Wagner could help develop this young and talented defense. Also, he may be more affordable for Howie to swing in 2025.
Looking Towards the 2025 NFL Draft
South Carolina’s Demetrius Knight Jr. is a former dual-threat quarterback and a six-year senior, which shows up in his instincts against the run. His scouting report notes that he is quick to key and diagnose, recognizes when he can shoot gaps, is good at mirror running backs on zone runs, and can sift through the trash to make tackles. Knight has good arm length and upper body strength to get extension and escape against offensive linemen. The Gamecock has very few flaws as a run defender.
However, Knight isn't very fluid and has limited lateral movement skills, which impact his ability to cover tight ends and running backs in man coverage. He has more room to grow in zone coverage. Knight would be a good fit as an inside linebacker on either odd or even fronts. Knight will turn 25 before his rookie season kicks off. He is projected as a third-round possibility.
Will Howie Roseman turn to the Crimson Tide and kick the tires on Jihaad Campbell? Campbell had a highly productive season with over 100 total tackles. He's young and will only be 21 years old when drafted. Campbell has plenty of potential due to his combination of age, size, and athletic ability.
According to his scouting profile, Campbell moves well and is effective in coverage, particularly when playing zone. He displays good eye discipline to identify threats in his area and can read the quarterback's eyes, tightening throwing windows. Additionally, he possesses the change of direction and acceleration needed to break on routes and make tackles for minimal gains.
Campbell struggles to maintain his gap when facing blocks from offensive linemen and skilled blocking tight ends. However, he also possesses some position versatility. The Crimson Tide could have him line up on the edge and rush the passer. He adds value as a pass-rusher, both on the edge and as a blitzer, making him ideally suited for a creative defensive coordinator who utilizes him in multiple roles at the next level.
Tough Decisions
Either way, the Eagles have some decisions. Fans would love to see their hero stay in Philly. Unfortunately, he is due for a payday. The Birds may not be able to pay that bill. Howie and the front office will really have to work some contract magic or land another top draft pick. Can they rely on young Trotter Jr or often injured Nakobe Dean? Philadelphia has many questions, but the ultimate question is, If not Zack Baun, then who? *
Email Al Zaffiri at zaffiri@gmail.com
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