Zack Baun is easily one of the greatest stories in NFL history. The Eagles had initially signed the former New Orleans Saints 2020 third-round pick to a one-year deal in NFL free agency last March for some extra depth at the linebacker position.

In the Eagles’ NFC Wild Card win over the Green Bay Packers on January 12, Baun logged eight tackles, one interception, and one pass deflection. Baun had six tackles, one tackle for loss, and one pass defended in the divisional-round win over the Rams.

Two Wisconsin natives are among the finalists for NFL defensive player of the year. Also, each NFL team remaining has a UW alumnus on the roster.

Former Wisconsin Badgers Zack Baun (Philadelphia Eagles) and T.J. Watt (Pittsburgh Steelers) were named finalists for the AP Defensive Player of the Year on Thursday. The inclusions are no surprise after the two were named first (Baun) and second-team All-Pro (Watt).