The Philadelphia Eagles’ recent Super Bowl victory has elicited a spectrum of reactions from former Wisconsin Badgers players, reflecting their diverse journeys and affiliations within the NFL. This article delves into the multifaceted responses of these athletes, highlighting the intricate interplay between personal achievements, team loyalties, and the broader football community.
Zack Baun: Navigating Hometown Loyalties
Zack Baun, a standout linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles, hails from Brown Deer, Wisconsin—a region deeply entrenched in Green Bay Packers allegiance. Despite his pivotal role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl run, Baun was taken aback by the steadfast loyalty of his hometown fans to the Packers. He remarked, “There’s a lot of conflicting fandom. I’m surprised by that. I thought they would be rooting for the Eagles because I’m here, but… people are loyal. People are loyal to their team.”
Baun’s journey to the Super Bowl was marked by personal and professional milestones. Transitioning to an off-ball linebacker role, he amassed 150 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and five forced fumbles during the season, earning him a first-team All-Pro selection. Reflecting on the team’s success, Baun emphasized the importance of consistency, stating, “If you’re a consistent player and it’s a consistent coach and a consistent team, then you should already have those habits built in.”
Corey Clement: From Undrafted to Unforgettable
Corey Clement’s path to Super Bowl glory is a testament to perseverance and seizing opportunities. After going undrafted in 2017, the former Wisconsin running back signed with the Philadelphia Eagles and quickly made his mark. In Super Bowl LII, Clement delivered a standout performance, recording 100 receiving yards and a touchdown, contributing significantly to the Eagles’ victory over the New England Patriots.
Clement’s journey from an undrafted rookie to a Super Bowl hero underscores the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the profound impact of individual performances on championship outcomes.
T.J. Edwards: Consistency Amidst Change
Linebacker T.J. Edwards, another Wisconsin alumnus, played a crucial role in the Eagles’ defensive unit. Throughout the season, Edwards demonstrated remarkable consistency, leading the team with 159 tackles and contributing significantly in pass defense. His efforts were instrumental in the Eagles’ journey to the Super Bowl, where they ultimately fell to the Kansas City Chiefs in a closely contested game.
Edwards’ performance highlights the critical role that undrafted players can play in a team’s success, as well as the strong foundation provided by programs like Wisconsin in developing NFL-ready talent.
Beau Allen and Chris Maragos: Reflections on a Championship
Defensive tackle Beau Allen and safety Chris Maragos, both former Badgers, were integral parts of the Eagles’ roster during their Super Bowl LII triumph. Allen, a Minnetonka, Minnesota native, found the experience particularly poignant as the championship game was held in his home state. Reflecting on the journey, Allen expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in front of family and friends, acknowledging the unique nature of the experience.
Maragos, serving as the Eagles’ special teams captain, faced adversity with a season-ending knee injury in October prior to the Super Bowl. Despite this setback, he remained a vocal leader and mentor, embodying the resilience and team-first mentality that defined the Eagles’ championship run. Upon receiving his Super Bowl ring, Maragos reflected on his journey from undrafted free agent to two-time Super Bowl champion, stating, “It’s just so cool to reflect on these things… it brings you back to these moments.”
Leo Chenal: A Rookie’s Rapid Rise
In Super Bowl LVII, rookie linebacker Leo Chenal, a former Badger, made a significant impact for the Kansas City Chiefs. Despite being on the opposing side of the Eagles, Chenal’s performance is noteworthy within the context of Wisconsin alumni in the NFL. He recorded six tackles, including a tackle for loss and a sack, showcasing his readiness for the big stage.
Chenal’s swift adaptation to the professional level underscores the quality of Wisconsin’s football program in preparing athletes for the NFL and highlights the interconnected narratives of former Badgers across the league.
Connor Barwin: A Complex Emotional Landscape
Former Eagles linebacker Connor Barwin, who spent four seasons with the team before departing prior to their Super Bowl LII victory, experienced a complex mix of emotions watching his former teammates secure the championship. Barwin admitted to feeling a sense of personal disappointment for not being part of the historic win but ultimately expressed happiness for his friends and the city of Philadelphia. He shared, “I was in a weird state for a couple of days. I was kind of bummed out that I wasn’t part of it… I’m just happy for everybody involved.”
Barwin’s reflections highlight the often-overlooked emotional challenges athletes face when separated from teams with which they have deep connections, especially during moments of significant achievement.
The Broader Wisconsin Legacy in the NFL
The varied experiences of these former Wisconsin Badgers underscore the profound impact of the university’s football program on the NFL landscape. From undrafted free agents rising to prominence to high draft picks meeting expectations, Wisconsin alumni have consistently demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and excellence at the professional level.
The reactions to the Eagles’ Super Bowl victories reflect personal journeys and affiliations and highlight the intricate web of relationships and narratives that define professional football. As these athletes continue to evolve in their careers, their roots at Wisconsin remain a unifying thread, underscoring the enduring legacy of the Badgers in the NFL.