Guess who’s donning the captain’s patch for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2025? While familiar faces return, the inspiring underdog story of Reed Blankenship and the breakout season of Zack Baun are making headlines! These new leaders are set to bring fresh energy and proven grit to the team. How do you think this leadership shake-up will impact their season?
The Philadelphia Eagles have officially unveiled their esteemed leadership group for the highly anticipated 2025 NFL season, naming eight formidable captains, a selection that notably includes three inspiring new additions poised to shape the team’s trajectory. This pivotal announcement sets a clear tone for the upcoming campaign, highlighting a blend of established veteran leadership and emerging talent ready to guide the Philadelphia Eagles on their quest for championship glory.
Among the distinguished returning captains are familiar stalwarts such as star quarterback Jalen Hurts, dominant offensive tackle Lane Johnson, reliable kicker Jake Elliott, explosive wide receiver A.J. Brown, and stalwart left tackle Jordan Mailata. Joining this experienced core as a new captain is running back Saquon Barkley, who, despite being new to the Eagles Football leadership group, brings a wealth of captaincy experience from his tenure with the New York Giants.
However, the most compelling and undeniably well-deserved new additions to the captaincy lineup are safety Reed Blankenship and linebacker Zack Baun, whose remarkable journeys and stellar performances have earned them this significant honor. Their inclusion underscores a commitment to recognizing impactful play and unwavering dedication within the squad, truly exemplifying the spirit of the NFL Captains 2025.
Reed Blankenship’s ascent is a true testament to UDFA Success, a compelling underdog story that began when he joined the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent out of Middle Tennessee State in 2022. After an exceptional training camp, he defied expectations, becoming one of only three UDFAs to secure a roster spot as a rookie. By 2023, Blankenship had solidified a full-time starting role, leading the team with 108 total tackles, three interceptions, and 11 passes defended, further proving his worth as a reliable asset in 2024 with 78 tackles, four interceptions, and a crucial role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX victory.
Similarly, Zack Baun has carved out an impressive path, transitioning from a former third-round pick to a crucial defensive leader. The Philadelphia Eagles shrewdly signed Baun to a one-year, $3.5 million deal in NFL free agency, a move that paid immense dividends as he profoundly impacted the team’s defensive unit throughout the previous season.
Baun’s 2024 season was nothing short of a breakout, racking up career highs with 3.5 sacks, one interception, four pass breakups, five forced fumbles, 11 tackles for loss, and a staggering 151 total tackles, earning him his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, along with a nomination for the Defensive Player of the Year award. His outstanding contributions were duly rewarded with a new three-year, $51 million contract, cementing his status as one of the league’s highest-paid linebackers and a vital component of Eagles Football.
These selections, particularly the rise of Reed Blankenship and Zack Baun, highlight the Philadelphia Eagles’ strategic vision in fostering leadership from within, blending established veterans with emerging talents who have demonstrated exceptional skill and commitment. The diverse backgrounds and proven capabilities of the NFL Captains 2025 promise a dynamic and resilient leadership group for the challenges and triumphs of the upcoming season.
