Eagles HC Nick Sirianni unprompted sings high praise for potential starting linebacker
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni typically isn't one to go out of his way to compliment players, but he recently did during training camp. Unprompted, Sirianni singled out linebacker Zack Baun for what he brings to the defensive table. “Another new addition to our team that I think brings an element of toughness with […]
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni typically isn't one to go out of his way to compliment players, but he recently did during training camp.
Unprompted, Sirianni singled out linebacker Zack Baun for what he brings to the defensive table.
“Another new addition to our team that I think brings an element of toughness with the way he plays with his motor, with the way he strikes blocks is Zack Baun,” Sirianni said. “It shows not only on the defensive side, but it also shows during special teams.
“Like, this guy is a tough, tough dude that plays with great detail and great passion for this game with physicality.”
This is huge considering Baun, who signed with the Eagles during free agency, is in the middle of a training camp battle with Nakobe Dean for the left inside linebacker starting job.
And between taking a majority of the first-team reps at practice and Sirianni's high praise, he appears to be winning it so far.
“It means a lot,” Baun said of Sirianni's compliment. “We talk about it a lot. It’s one thing to talk about it but it’s next-level to do it and do it consistently. That’s something that’s always been in my game. I always pride myself on that. I’m a hustle guy. From being a special teamer, it’s all about effort and tenacity and always moving around so that’s always been a part of my game. I appreciate that, Coach.”
Baun was initially selected by the Saints in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, where he had spent that last four years before coming to Philly.
In four seasons with the Saints, Baun saw action in 62 games with 14 starts. He enters the 2024 season after logging 30 tackles, two sacks, and four QB hits last fall.
