The Las Vegas Raiders could be in the market for a linebacker this offseason, as the team’s 2024 starters at the position, Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo, are set to be unrestricted free agents this offseason.
General manager John Spytek could look to address the potential position of need in April’s draft, but ClutchPoints’ Ben Strauss believes Las Vegas is a possible landing spot for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun.
“If the Eagles cannot retain Baun, then the Raiders could be an ideal landing spot,” Strauss wrote. “The Raiders absolutely have a need for a tone-setter like Baun at the linebacker position. Las Vegas is set to lose two of its 2024 starting linebackers (Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo) to free agency. This gives them an opportunity to upgrade and get better at the position.”
“Baun would add another elite playmaker on defense alongside edge rusher Maxx Crosby and interior defender Christian Wilkins,” Strauss added.
Baun had a breakout 2024 campaign with the Eagles, starting in 16 games and totaling 151 tackles with five forced fumbles and 69 defensive stops. The 28-year-old also allowed an 88.4 passer rating when targeted and posted a 90.1 PFF grade, the second-highest among linebackers.
The veteran earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors due to his excellent play this season, and has a chance to win a championship on Sunday, as Philadelphia squares off against the Kansas City Chiefs at Caesars Superdome in Super Bowl LIX.
The 2020 third-round pick of the New Orleans Saints has been an integral part of the Eagles stout defense in 2024 and is one of the best defensive players set to hit the free agency market this offseason.
The Raiders should look to sign Baun, as the former Wisconsin standout would immediately step in as an impactful starter on Patrick Graham’s defense and is still just 28 years old.
Spotrac projects Baun will land a two-year deal worth $19.4 million on the open market, while Pro Football Focus believes the star defender will sign a contract worth $40 million over the three seasons with $26.5 million.
Overall, Las Vegas should pursue Baun and add a difference-maker to the middle of the defense. However, the All-Pro linebacker also needs a formidable running mate, and with the Raiders having over $92 million in cap space, the team should have enough money to bring back Spillane and form one of the most versatile and lethal defensive duos in football.