Zack Baun

Zack Baun, one of the New Orleans Saints' third-round picks, has signed a four-year contract through 2023.

Fantasy Impact

The Saints traded up to acquire Baun in the draft to add the outside linebacker to their already strong repertoire of linebackers which includes both Demario Davis and journeyman Kiko Alonso. According to Ryan Wing of FOX News, Sean Payton likes Baun's versatility and feels he can become a designated pass rusher and can play in both "Mike" and "Sam" positions. Baun's senior year earned him lots of acclaim as he racked up 76 tackles (52 solo) in 14 games, as well as an interception returned for a TD. While we still await confirmation as to whether Baun will be a starter, it seems as though the intention of the Saints is to use Baun across multiple positions.

The New Orleans Saints have selected linebacker Zack Baun with the No. 74 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft after acquiring the pick from the Cleveland Browns.

Fantasy Impact

The Saints gave up the 88th overall pick as well as a 2021 third-rounder in order to take Baun with this selection. The edge rusher out of Wisconsin fell considerably tonight and the Saints are clearly trying to capitalize while Drew Brees is still their quarterback. Baun is a versatile athlete capable of functioning in multiple roles on New Orleans' defense.

Wisconsin LB Zack Baun tested positive for a diluted sample at the combine, which he blamed on drinking too much water to hit a certain weight.

Fantasy Impact

Whether or not Baun is telling the truth here is unknown, but something like this shouldn’t impact his draft stock very much, if at all. According to Schefter, under the NFL’s new CBA, this positive test will not count as a strike against him where it would have in the old CBA. He could go as early as the end of the first round should a team need his pass-rushing ability that he showcased at Wisconsin.