NFL general managers utilize “prove-it” contracts every offseason. It’s a great way to fill a roster need with a motivated, veteran player looking to prove himself and eventually cash in.
Hitting on these cheap, one-year deals can be a boon for a franchise. Hitting on two in the same season? That’s extremely rare.
Put GM Howie Roseman and the Philadelphia Eagles in that “extremely rare” category.
Roseman signed a pair of prove-it contracts with linebacker Zack Baun and offensive lineman Mekhi Becton this offseason. Baun has been one of the top breakout stories of the 2024 season, earning himself a Pro Bowl nod. Becton, after flaming out at tackle with the New York Jets, has settled in as a stabilizing force for the Eagles at right guard.
Both players have earned themselves a major pay increase in 2025 and beyond, with Baun likely at the top of Philly’s list. Matt Holder of Bleacher Report recently called Baun the team’s No. 1 offseason priority.
Here’s why he predicts the Eagles will lock up their superstar linebacker prior to free agency:
Milton Williams is another candidate to earn a second contract in Philadelphia, but Williams could be expensive. Baun should be cheaper given his position as an off-ball linebacker. The 28-year-old has revived his career this season, emerging as one of the best second-level defenders in the league. If the Eagles let Baun walk, they will have to find a productive linebacker to replace him.
Baun has been unbelievable this season, as the one-year, $3.5 million contract he signed this past offseason is a number you typically see for a reserve/special teamer. His 151 total tackles ranked sixth in the NFL this season, and that’s with him resting with other key Eagles starters in Week 18.
He’s been such a good fit with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio and middle linebacker Nakobe Dean, it would be stunning if the Eagles didn’t offer Baun a multi-year contract with a floor of $10 million in average annual value.
Roseman has a history of building through the trenches, so names like Becton and Milton Williams, their 25-year-old defensive tackle on an expiring rookie contract, should be high on this list as well. But the price is right to lock up Baun as soon as possible, as his play has only improved throughout this breakout 2024 campaign.
