Philadelphia, PA – June 13, 2025
Zack Baun isn't interested in clichés. He’s not here to sugarcoat, flatter, or play politics. When asked about the state of the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense heading into the 2025 season, Baun delivered a message that was raw, direct, and impossible to ignore.
"This defense is built to dominate. No more excuses. It’s our time now," Baun told Inside The Iggles in a recent interview that’s already rippling through the NovaCare Complex.
The statement wasn't just confidence — it was a challenge. A challenge to teammates. A challenge to coaches. And a challenge to the city of Philadelphia, where expectations remain sky-high after a Super Bowl LIX victory and a defensive unit that still hasn’t reached its full potential under new coordinator Vic Fangio.
Baun, who emerged as an All-Pro force in 2024 after years of waiting for his breakout, is quickly becoming the emotional and vocal centerpiece of Fangio’s scheme. His film study is obsessive. His motor is relentless. And now, his voice is commanding.
"There’s talent everywhere in this room," he added. "Carter, Ringo, Jalyx, Jihaad — these guys can fly. But talent isn’t enough anymore. You either raise your level or get exposed."
Baun’s comments hit differently because they come from someone who has done exactly that. After arriving in Philadelphia with limited expectations, he transformed into a do-it-all linebacker who can blitz, cover, and anchor the middle with authority. His tone is not just motivational — it’s born from experience.
Inside the building, sources say Fangio is fully behind Baun’s rise as a vocal leader. The two reportedly share a similar no-nonsense approach to football. Fangio, who spent much of the offseason installing a complex hybrid front with varied blitz packages, is counting on Baun to be the quarterback of the defense.
The response from fans has been immediate and passionate.
"Zack Baun just became my favorite Eagle," one fan posted on X. "He talks like Dawkins, hits like Trotter." Another said: "This is what we needed — leadership that doesn’t hide."
And that’s exactly what Baun is providing. Not hope. Not hype. But accountability.
With stars like Jalen Carter, Kelee Ringo, and Nolan Smith surrounding him, and rookies like Jihaad Campbell entering the fray, the Eagles have the firepower. What they’ve needed — and what Baun is becoming — is the enforcer who turns potential into dominance.
Training camp is around the corner. And thanks to Zack Baun, the message is already clear.
Excuses are over. It’s time to dominate.
