Will Zack Baun Be 1 Of The Eagles Starting Linebackers?
Linebacker remains one of the biggest question marks for the Eagles. They signed Devin White in the off-season, and it is presumed he will be 1 of the starters. But the other spot is still up in the air between Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean. But based on what we are hearing from the Eagles, Baun might be in the lead. Which is backed up by the fact he is getting the majority of the 1st team snaps.
Zack Baun A Lock For the Starting Lineup?
When the Eagles signed Zack Baun, it was assumed he would be a rotational pass rusher, because that is what he was with the Saints. But then he was the 1st name Vic Fangio mentioned when asked about inside linebackers in his introductory press conference. An odd choice, given how he had never play inside before.
But then he got the snaps there in mini-camp. he continued to get those snaps in training camp. Leading to the conclusion, he might just be their 2nd guy after Devin White.
In his 2nd press conference during Training Camp, Fangio praised the versatility of Baun, saying they will use him inside and out. Devon White was also asked about Baun, and said this.
“Pure effort, pure heart.. sticking his head in on every play on downhill runs. He is just going out there and being relentless.”
So it is clear Baun is making an impression. It also helps that the guy he is fighting for that starting spot with is having a tough time.
Nakobe Dean Is Struggling?
There is a lot to like about Nakobe Dean. He has the makings of a great leader… if he can get on the field. That is where the problem comes in. Going into year 3 he has still never proven he can be a consistently on the field. He couldn’t get on the field year 1, and then battled injuries in year 2.
RELATED: Nakobe Dean Has Makings Of A Great Leader, If He Can Play
Eagles fans got a look at him in Open Practice, and he did not exactly shine. Something Fangio acknowledged. But Fangio also said he has looked good outside of that Open Practice. Given how honest Fangio has been in other areas, you can probably trust him when he says he has liked what he saw from Dean outside that Open Practice. Still, we have heard from reporters on the scene at Training Camp that he is struggling in coverage.
He is still 3rd on the depth chart based on the 1st teams snaps he is getting though. Unlike last season, the Eagles are not anointing him at the start of camp. If he is going to be the other starter, he has to earn it. So far, based on everything we have heard, Baun is ahead of him.
Dean has a few more weeks and 3 pre-season games to change the Eagles mind. Zack Baun certainly seems like the favorite right now.
Listen To Or Watch ‘The Best Show Ever?’ Live On The 97.5 The Fanatic And On NBC Sports Philly From 2 To 6 p.m. every Weekday
