Early Life and High School Career:

• Birth and Family Background: Zack Baun was born on March 8, 1996, in Brown Deer, Wisconsin. He grew up in a sports-oriented family which fostered his early interest in football.
• High School at Brown Deer: At Brown Deer High School, Baun was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in both football and track. He was a standout player in football, earning recognition as a highly versatile athlete. As a linebacker and running back, he demonstrated exceptional athleticism and football IQ. His high school career stats included impressive numbers on both offense and defense, helping him to earn all-state honors.

College Career at the University of Wisconsin:

• Freshman and Sophomore Seasons (2015-2016): Baun joined the University of Wisconsin as a linebacker, and his freshman year saw him contributing primarily as a reserve. In 2016, he played a more significant role, accumulating 11 tackles and 3.5 sacks as a rotational player. His ability to make plays, particularly as a pass rusher, began to attract attention.
• Junior Year (2017): The 2017 season was pivotal for Baun. Although he played in a reserve role for much of the year, he showed glimpses of his potential, recording 24 tackles and 3 sacks. His performances during the season set the stage for a breakout senior year.
• Senior Year (2018): Baun’s senior season was a standout year, establishing him as one of the top defensive players in college football. He was a key figure in the Badgers’ defense, compiling 75 total tackles, 12.5 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. His ability to rush the passer from multiple positions was particularly notable. He earned first-team All-Big Ten honors and was named a consensus All-American. His versatility allowed him to play effectively both as an edge rusher and in coverage, contributing significantly to Wisconsin’s defensive success.

Transition to the NFL:

• Preparation for the Draft: After his senior year, Baun declared for the 2020 NFL Draft. His performance at the Senior Bowl and his pro day workouts helped showcase his athleticism and versatility to NFL scouts.
• NFL Draft (2020): Zack Baun was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft with the 74th overall pick. His selection was considered a strong value pick due to his potential as a versatile linebacker who could contribute immediately.

NFL Career with the New Orleans Saints:

• Rookie Season (2020): Baun’s rookie season involved a period of adjustment as he adapted to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. He played in 16 games, primarily contributing on special teams, with 12 tackles and 1 sack. His rookie year was a learning experience, and he showed potential as he became more familiar with the Saints’ defensive schemes.
• Second Season (2021): In his second year, Baun’s role expanded. He saw increased playing time on defense, appearing in 16 games and recording 30 tackles and 2 sacks. His ability to adapt and contribute to various defensive schemes highlighted his growth as a player.
• Subsequent Seasons: Baun continued to develop his game in the following years. He became known for his versatility, being able to play both as an outside linebacker and an edge rusher. His work ethic and commitment to improvement were evident in his performance on the field. He continued to contribute on special teams and as a rotational defensive player, further establishing his value to the Saints.

Playing Style and Impact:

• Versatility: Baun is known for his versatility, which allows him to excel in various roles. He can rush the passer, cover in space, and play against the run. His ability to transition between different linebacker positions and contribute in multiple defensive schemes makes him a valuable asset.
• Athleticism and Work Ethic: His athleticism is a standout feature, as he combines speed, strength, and agility. His work ethic and dedication to refining his skills have been key to his continued success and development.

Legacy and Future:

• Career Development: Baun’s journey from college to the NFL underscores the importance of perseverance and adaptability. His career trajectory highlights how a standout college performance can set the stage for success at the professional level, but ongoing development and adaptability are crucial for long-term success.
• Future Prospects: As Baun continues to develop, his versatility and ability to contribute in various roles will be critical to his future success. His experience and growth over the initial years of his NFL career suggest that he has the potential to become a key player for the Saints and continue making significant contributions on the field.

Zack Baun’s journey is a testament to his hard work and determination, illustrating the path from a high school standout to a key player in the NFL. His story highlights the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning from college football to the professional ranks.