Bears Reunite with Jack Sanborn to Bolster Linebacker Depth and Familiarity

The Chicago Bears have agreed to a one-year deal to bring back linebacker Jack Sanborn, reuniting with a player who previously developed within their system before spending the 2025 season with the Dallas Cowboys. The move, announced Wednesday, adds a familiar presence to a linebacker group undergoing notable changes.

Sanborn, 25, appeared in six games for Dallas last season, starting five, before a groin injury placed him on injured reserve and ended his campaign prematurely. Despite the setback, his brief stint with the Cowboys provided additional experience in a different defensive system.

Originally entering the league as an undrafted free agent with Chicago in 2022, Sanborn quickly carved out a role on both defense and special teams. Over time, he established himself as a reliable contributor capable of stepping into multiple responsibilities when needed.

His return comes at a time when Chicago is reshaping its defensive personnel, particularly at linebacker. With new additions, departures, and returning players in the mix, Sanborn’s familiarity with the organization could prove valuable as the team evaluates its depth chart.

1. Development and Early Career in Chicago

Sanborn began his NFL career with the Bears in 2022, joining the roster as an undrafted free agent out of Wisconsin. He quickly earned playing time, appearing in 48 games over three seasons with the team and starting 19 of those contests. During his first stint in Chicago, Sanborn demonstrated consistency as a tackler and a dependable option in the middle of the defense. He recorded 164 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, one interception, and five pass breakups during that span. His rookie season included 64 tackles and two sacks, along with a Pro Football Focus grade of 71.1. That performance earned him recognition within the organization, including the Brian Piccolo Award, which honors players who exemplify dedication and perseverance. By 2023, Sanborn had established himself as a more prominent contributor, starting 10 games and setting career highs with 67 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and an interception. That season marked his most productive year and highlighted his ability to handle increased responsibility.

2. Time with Dallas and Injury Setback

Sanborn’s move to the Cowboys in 2025 provided an opportunity to expand his experience in a new defensive environment. He appeared in six games for Dallas, starting five, indicating that he was in line for a meaningful role before his season was cut short. A groin injury ultimately sidelined him and led to a stint on injured reserve. The injury prevented him from completing the season and limited his ability to build on the momentum he had established early in the year. Despite the setback, Sanborn’s time in Dallas added to his overall NFL experience. Working within a different scheme allowed him to gain additional perspective and adapt to new defensive responsibilities. Across his career, Sanborn has appeared in 52 games with 24 starts, accumulating 183 total tackles, including 118 solo stops, along with 15 tackles for loss and 15 special teams tackles. These numbers reflect a player who has contributed steadily when healthy and available.

3. Fit Within a Reshaped Linebacker Room

Sanborn returns to a Chicago linebacker unit that has undergone several personnel changes. The organization recently released Tremaine Edmunds, creating cap space and altering the composition of the group. In response, the Bears added Devin Bush on a three-year deal to pair with returning starter T.J. Edwards. These moves signal a reconfiguration of the core linebacker rotation heading into the new season. Chicago also retained depth options such as D’Marco Jackson, Noah Sewell, and Ruben Hyppolite II, creating competition for snaps across both defensive packages and special teams units. Given his prior experience in the system, Sanborn is expected to compete for a rotational role while also contributing on special teams. His familiarity with the coaching staff and defensive terminology could give him an advantage as he re-integrates into the roster.