Wisconsin is one of the few programs with a true claim as ‘Linebacker-U.’
The Badgers currently have seven former linebackers playing in the NFL. That list is headlined by all-world defensive star T.J. Watt, Andrew Van Ginkel and Leo Chenal.
Related: How Braelon Allen, every former Wisconsin Badger performed in Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season
It should not be surprising that two former Badger linebackers currently lead the entire NFL in tackles after Week 1: Philadelphia Eagles ILB Zack Baun (15 tackles) and Chicago Bears ILB T.J. Edwards (15).
Baun and Edwards led their teams’ defensive efforts in their opening games. Baun emerged out of nowhere to pace the Eagles’ defense with those 15 tackles, one tackle for loss and two sacks. Edwards, meanwhile, continues to live up to the lofty contract that lured him back to his hometown Bears.
Tackle leaders one week in. đź’Ş
(by @Gatorade) pic.twitter.com/TR0HjBoOXG
— NFL (@NFL) September 12, 2024
Edwards’ high total is no surprise. His six-year NFL career includes 559 total tackles, 30 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, 17 quarterback hits, five fumble recoveries and five interceptions. He has been one of the NFL’s better-tackling linebackers for a half-decade.
Baun, on the other hand, barely saw the field on defense during his four years with the New Orleans Saints. The Eagles signed him this offseason to a one-year deal, with the plan to move him back to his more natural stand-up position. That has already paid dividends with his Week 1 performance. Baun’s 15 tackles are already halfway to his career high of 30.
The two former Badgers will be back on the field in Week 2 as they look to continue to pace the NFL in its most important defensive statistic.
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