Jack Sanborn Returns to Chicago Bears on One-Year Deal

As of March 19, 2026, Jack Sanborn has rejoined the Chicago Bears, signing a one-year contract announced on Wednesday, marking his return to the franchise that originally brought him into the NFL. The move reunites the 25-year-old linebacker with the organization where he began his professional career.

Sanborn, who will turn 26 this July and attended Lake Zurich High School, was originally signed by the Bears as an undrafted free agent out of Wisconsin. He started 19 games for Chicago between 2022 and 2024 before following head coach Matt Eberflus to the Dallas Cowboys last year. In Dallas he worked under Eberflus—who became the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator after his departure from Chicago in 2024—and linebackers coach Dave Borgonzi, but appeared in just six games while dealing with a concussion and a groin injury.

The contract is aimed at bolstering a linebacker corps that has been hit by injuries. Chicago is waiting on the returns of T.J. Edwards (leg injury) and Noah Sewell (torn Achilles), and last week added Devin Bush after releasing Tremaine Edmunds as a salary-cap move. Sanborn is expected to provide veteran depth and contribute on special teams as the Bears manage roster availability heading into the coming season.