Badger of Honor
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Wisconsin Football Twitter Awards

By Tanner Nestle

MADISON, WI - OCTOBER 15: Dontre Wilson #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes makes a catch past Zack Baun #56 of the Wisconsin Badgers in overtime at Camp Randall Stadium on October 15, 2016 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
MADISON, WI - OCTOBER 15: Dontre Wilson #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes makes a catch past Zack Baun #56 of the Wisconsin Badgers in overtime at Camp Randall Stadium on October 15, 2016 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /
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Wisconsin Football LB Zack Baun
MADISON, WI – OCTOBER 15: Dontre Wilson #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes makes a catch past Zack Baun #56 of the Wisconsin Badgers in overtime at Camp Randall Stadium on October 15, 2016 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

Comeback Kid: OLB Zack Baun

The Comeback Kid is somebody who missed significant time last season and doesn’t have a whole lot of momentum to build from. He’s looking to establish himself as a mainstay, or even a star, in the lineup from almost nothing. Zack Baun missed all of last season after suffering an injury in Spring camp. Had it not been for the injury, he could have been a breakout candidate last year.

Baun has the opportunity to play significant snaps this year too. At the outside linebacker position, only Andrew Van Ginkel is a known. Opposite him, Baun will fight for time with Tyler Johnson, Christian Bell, and other unproven pass rushers.

What sets Baun apart for me was the hype he had before his injury. He’s a great athlete and fits the mold perfectly for a 3-4 outside linebacker. In high school, Baun was a dual-threat quarterback and scored with his arm and legs. He’s just a naturally gifted football player and doesn’t know how to not make plays.

Baun will have the luxury of playing in one of the better position groups on the team, and probably the best group on the defense. Very little attention will be placed on him allowing him to play without pressure. Baun might have a quiet year, but it will be a solid one considering he missed all of last season.