The Philadelphia Eagles found a diamond in the rough last offseason in linebacker Zack Baun. Baun spent the first four years of his career mainly as a special teamer with the New Orleans Saints. However, new Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio saw something in the 28-year-old vet entering the 2024 season.
As a result, Baun earned a spot in the starting lineup and surprised everyone around the NFL. In 2024, Baun recorded 151 tackles, 11 TFLs, 3.5 sacks, five QB hits, four pass deflections, five forced fumbles and one interception. This breakout performance earned him Defensive Player of the Year consideration as well as All-Pro and Pro-Bowl honors.
Due to his performance, Baun is expected to sign a two-year contract worth $19.4 million, according to Spotrac. Therefore, many expect Baun to be on a new team next season, which means Philadelphia must replace him. One player who could fill in for Baun in 2025 is former Carolina Panther linebacker Shaq Thompson.
Panthers recently informed veteran linebacker Shaq Thompson that he will be allowed to become a free agent and the team does not plan to re-sign him. pic.twitter.com/LD1clAXAJT
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 24, 2025
Why Adding Shaq Thompson Could Benefit Philadelphia
Since 2023, Thompson has been unlucky with injuries, as he suffered season-ending injuries early in the year. In 2023, Thompson broke his fibula in Week 2. Then, this past season, he tore his Achilles in Week 4. These injuries resulted in Carolina deciding they want a younger linebacker with more upside going forward.
That said, the soon-to-be 31-year-old was a very productive player before the injuries. From 2019-2022, Thompson put together four consecutive seasons of 100+ tackles. Moreover, Thompson has only had one season below a 60-run defense grade but has struggled in pass coverage, only putting together three seasons with a better than 60 grade, according to PFF.
Despite his struggles in pass coverage, Thompson remains a low-cost option for Philadelphia. According to Spotrac, Thompson is expected to receive a one-year deal worth $1 million. That's certainly a bargain for a player who consistently put up 100 tackle seasons prior to his injuries.
Nevertheless, Thompson likely won't have the impact that Buan did this season. Yet, at the very least his addition would provide the Eagles a solid backup linebacker who could start if needed. Regardless, it will be interesting to see if Howie Roseman decides to pursue Thompson this offseason.