In an unexpected move, Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun, who had a breakout season leading to a Super Bowl victory, has re-signed with the team on a lucrative three-year deal worth $51 million. This rare occurrence of a first-team All-Pro remaining with the same team post-offseason suggests a shift in the value of off-ball linebackers in the NFL, as teams increasingly prioritize the position amid a resurgence in running games.

With Baun off the market, several key linebackers are still available in free agency. Among them, Kansas City's Nick Bolton stands out as a young, formidable presence after a stellar 180-tackle season. Others include Dre Greenlaw of the 49ers, who is returning from an Achilles injury, and Ernest Jones, who has shown promise in Seattle. The Jets’ Jamien Sherwood and veteran Lavonte David from Tampa Bay round out the list of top linebackers looking for new contracts.