One Bears standout that isn't getting enough love
In a season where the Chicago Bears are looking for long-term solutions across its roster, linebacker Jack Sanborn looks like a defensive centerpiece. Sanborn signed with Chicago as an undrafted free agent and has already climbed the ranks, becoming a pivotal player in the middle of the Bears’ defense. The former Wisconsin Badger has started […]
In a season where the Chicago Bears are looking for long-term solutions across its roster, linebacker Jack Sanborn looks like a defensive centerpiece.
Sanborn signed with Chicago as an undrafted free agent and has already climbed the ranks, becoming a pivotal player in the middle of the Bears’ defense.
The former Wisconsin Badger has started in the Bears’ last five games, making his presence felt as a tackling machine. Sanborn took another step forward in Sunday’s 28-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Sanborn tallied a game-high 11 tackles, nine of which were solo stops, and one tackle for loss. He's averaging nine tackles per game since being plugged into the starting lineup.
It was the first game in which Sanborn logged 100 percent of the Bears’ defensive snaps, playing in all 63. This performance comes just one week after he recorded 15 tackles against the New York Jets.
General manager Ryan Pace’s first rookie class is really emerging late in the season. Jaquan Brisker has Pro Bowl potential at the safety position. Cornerback Kyler Gordon and edge rusher Dominique Robinson have shown flashes throughout the season as well.
It's rare to find a gem that all 32 teams passed on seven times, like Sanborn. But credit Pace and the Bears scouting department for plucking him up.
Though there isn’t anything left to play for this season outside of a draft pick, Chicago’s final four games still have plenty of meaning. Sanborn’s development in a starting role should keep Bears fans interested as the 2022 season comes to a close.
Featured image via Daniel Bartel – USA TODAY SPORTS
