New Orleans Saints: 3 reasons why Zack Baun can replace Kiko Alonso
![MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 30: Zack Baun #56 of the Wisconsin Badgers tackles Shannon Brooks #4 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the second quarter of the game at TCF Bank Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 30: Zack Baun #56 of the Wisconsin Badgers tackles Shannon Brooks #4 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the second quarter of the game at TCF Bank Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fwhodatdish-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2018-2F08-2F1185635734-850x560-60885e08595ed406aa481d439dd34576.jpg)
Number Two: Ability
Kiko Alonso has always been known as a physical linebacker who is an above-average tackler and has a knack for finding the football. Alonso has struggled with injuries throughout his career and has only played a full 16 games twice in his career.
Zack Baun is very dependable and is in great shape to play a full 16 games and more.
Alonso is coming off his second ACL tear and as a 30-year-old linebacker, that’s no easy task coming back from an injury that severe. Alonso still has the ability to be on the roster, but I think a younger, healthier Baun should get the starting nod instead.
Baun will enter the Big Easy after a terrific season at Wisconsin. Baun put up 75 totaled tackles and 12.5 sacks.
The latter of those numbers speak volumes. Baun can flat out get to the quarterback. Although a major change in the league, it’s tough to look at Alonso and see a player that’s as competent as a pass rusher. The veteran has just three sacks in over 85 games in the NFL.