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Eagles' new versatile LB hints at the role he wants to play in Philly
Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

Eagles' new versatile LB hints at the role he wants to play in Philly

Originally posted on A to Z Sports  |  By Kelsey Kramer  |  Last updated 3/19/24

Philadelphia Eagles' new versatile linebacker Zack Baun is ready to play anywhere. 

The former third-round out of Wisconsin by the New Orleans in the 2020 NFL draft has been used as an off-ball linebacker, pass rusher and core special teams member. 

With the Eagles needing help in each of those areas, Baun isn't sure just yet how he will be used. But he'll be ready for whatever role they give him. 

"I'm not particular plan but I have a lot of experience doing both and I think I can do both at a high level," Baun said. "So I'm interested to see where the coaches utilize my skillset and decide to play me, but I'm down to play wherever and do whatever." 

Last season, Baun lined up as a pass rusher 252 times and off the ball 33 times. He also played 385 special teams snaps. 

It was the first year that Baun was able to really showcase his rushing the passer skills.

He admitted that it was frustrating not being able to do that much sooner. 

"I think I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t,” Baun said. “But I just put my head down and kept working and if I didn’t get opportunities on the edge, I’d get them elsewhere, on special teams or inside linebacker and work on my craft that way.”

As for the special teams side of his job in New Orleans, Bauns is open to playing that the same role in Philly. 

“Special teams gave me an opportunity in this league,” Bauns said. “I’m an effort and energy guy and that’s what it takes to play special teams. I don’t think that’ll ever leave me as long as I’m in the NFL.”

But by expressing his frustration early in the press conference, he hinted that he hopes to get more opportunities to go after the quarterback. 

Where the Eagles ultimately decide to use Baun will be interesting, especially if they end up trading Haason Reddick. 

Reddick's absence would certainly give Baun more chances to do exactly what he wants to do. 

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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