JUST IN: Jack Sanborn Speaks Out After Leaving Bears—‘Grateful’ Linebacker Embraces Fresh Start with Cowboys
After three eventful seasons in the Windy City, linebacker Jack Sanborn is officially turning the page on his NFL journey. The former Chicago Bears standout, and Lake Zurich native, is heading south to join the Dallas Cowboys—and he’s bringing with him not only experience and grit, but also a deep sense of gratitude for the chapter he just closed. Sanborn’s departure from the Bears might not have made national headlines at the time, but for fans who followed his rise from undrafted free agent to starting-caliber linebacker, it marks the end of a notable run—and the beginning of something new.
Sanborn’s path to the NFL has always been rooted in resilience and hard work. Coming out of Lake Zurich High School and later the University of Wisconsin, he was never the flashiest prospect. He wasn’t invited to the early rounds of the draft, and scouts questioned his speed and ceiling. But none of that mattered once he stepped on the field for the Bears. Sanborn quickly earned a reputation for being instinctive, tough, and reliable. He made plays, filled gaps, and became a fan favorite for his blue-collar mentality and Midwest roots. He was exactly the kind of player Chicago loves.
Over the course of three seasons with the Bears, Sanborn grew into a respected presence in the locker room and on the field. He started 29 games, registered more than 200 tackles, and logged key snaps in both run defense and special teams. Coaches valued his football IQ and consistency, and his effort was never in question. Even in a defense that underwent significant changes during his time there—including a new coaching staff and shifting schemes—Sanborn always found a way to contribute.
But as often happens in the NFL, circumstances change. The Bears continued to invest in linebacker talent through the draft and free agency, and roster competition became fierce. When the opportunity arose for a fresh start with the Dallas Cowboys, it became clear that both sides might benefit from a change. For Sanborn, it wasn’t about bitterness or disappointment—it was about opportunity. And he’s embracing the new challenge in Dallas with open arms.
Speaking to reporters during his first week with the Cowboys, Sanborn made it clear that he leaves Chicago with nothing but appreciation. “I’m grateful—genuinely grateful—for everything the Bears gave me,” he said. “They gave me my shot. They believed in me when a lot of teams didn’t. I’ll never forget that.” That sense of humility and reflection is what endeared Sanborn to fans during his time with the Bears. He never carried himself like a star. He worked like someone who knew every rep mattered.
The transition to Dallas will be a significant one. The Cowboys have built one of the more aggressive, fast-paced defenses in the league, and Sanborn’s ability to adapt will be tested early. But those who’ve followed his career know that he thrives in just this kind of situation. He’s walked into every challenge in his career as the underdog and emerged stronger. Whether it was earning a roster spot as an undrafted rookie or cracking the starting lineup mid-season, Sanborn has consistently proven people wrong.
Dallas isn’t just getting a linebacker—they’re getting a player with leadership traits, a deep understanding of the game, and a motor that doesn’t stop. The Cowboys, for their part, see Sanborn as a valuable depth piece with the potential to do more. Injuries and rotation needs have made linebacker depth a major focus for the team, and Sanborn’s experience and work ethic make him a natural fit. He’ll also be expected to contribute heavily on special teams, an area where he excelled during his time in Chicago.
For Bears fans, saying goodbye to a hometown favorite like Sanborn is bittersweet. He represented something authentic—a player who came from the local football scene, put in the work, and carved out a role through pure determination. In many ways, he was the embodiment of what Chicago football is supposed to be: tough, reliable, and selfless. His departure is a reminder of how quickly the NFL moves and how even well-liked, productive players can find themselves looking for a new home.
Yet there’s no sense of finality in Sanborn’s tone. He sees this next step as part of a continuing journey. “Football’s about growth,” he said. “You learn, you adapt, you move forward. I’ve got nothing but respect for Chicago and the people there. But now it’s about showing what I can do in Dallas.” That growth mindset is what’s kept Sanborn relevant in a league where undrafted players often fade fast. He never stops improving. He never stops competing.
The Bears’ linebacker room will move forward with younger, high-upside players who were drafted to fit the current defensive vision. But Sanborn’s impact won’t be forgotten. Teammates have spoken highly of him in recent interviews, noting his professionalism, preparation, and willingness to help others. One former teammate even called him “the heartbeat of the defense” during a stretch when injuries left the Bears scrambling for consistency. That kind of praise is rare for a player who was never seen as a star—but it speaks volumes.
In Dallas, Sanborn will be given a clean slate and a new system to learn. The expectations are clear: bring energy, bring toughness, and be ready when your number is called. If past experience is any indication, he’ll do just that. Cowboys fans may not know much about him yet, but they’ll learn quickly that he’s the type of player who leaves it all on the field. He may not be the flashiest name on the roster, but he’ll earn respect with every snap.
There’s also a level of excitement in seeing how Sanborn fits into the Cowboys’ defensive schemes. With elite pass rushers up front and a fast secondary behind him, his job will be to diagnose plays quickly, close gaps, and clean up in the middle. It’s a role he’s well-suited for—and one that could earn him even more playing time if he adjusts quickly.
Back in Lake Zurich, where Sanborn first made a name for himself as a high school star, there’s pride in seeing one of their own continue to rise. His story has always resonated with people who appreciate the underdog. From overlooked recruit to NFL starter to new beginnings in Dallas, he’s followed a path paved with hard work and quiet determination.
Sanborn knows better than most that the NFL is unpredictable. Jobs aren’t guaranteed, and moments of stability can be fleeting. That’s why he’s approaching his new opportunity with the same mindset that’s always served him well: stay humble, stay hungry, and make your presence felt. The Cowboys may be the next stop, but for Jack Sanborn, the mission remains the same.
His journey, now taking a Texas turn, is far from over. And if history tells us anything, it’s that betting against Jack Sanborn is a mistake. He’s heard it all before—the doubts, the projections, the ceilings—and he’s turned them all into motivation. That mindset, paired with his football intelligence and relentless approach, makes him a player worth watching.
So while his time in Chicago may have come to a close, Jack Sanborn’s story is still being written. And if his past is any indication, the next chapter might be the most compelling yet.
