On February 23, 2026, Chicago Fire FC II announced the signing of Jack Sandmeyer, the club’s 18th overall selection in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft, to an MLS NEXT Pro contract covering the 2026 season, with an option extending into the 2027 transition period. Financial details remain undisclosed in accordance with league policy. Sandmeyer’s addition highlights the club’s commitment to developing promising talent for the future.
Player Profile and Collegiate Achievements
The 23-year-old defender, hailing from San Diego, California, completed his collegiate career at the University of North Carolina. During the 2025 season, Sandmeyer started all 20 matches as a defensive midfielder, contributing 1,809 minutes of play. He was instrumental on a squad that achieved a .850 goals-against average and secured eight clean sheets. Sandmeyer’s notable goal came from a bicycle kick in a thrilling 2-2 draw against North Florida, earning him third team All-ACC honors alongside three of his UNC teammates.
Sandmeyer began his college soccer journey at the University of California, Davis, before transferring to the University of San Diego for his senior season. There, he started 19 games and scored twice, including a crucial 82nd-minute goal in an NCAA Tournament upset over No. 10 Duke, a defining moment that helped the Toreros advance in the competition.
Coaching Staff Praise and Connection to Chicago Fire
Mike Matkovich, Head Coach of Chicago Fire FC II, praised Sandmeyer’s game intelligence and physical dominance. He remarked,
“Jack has a good understanding of the game to go with good feet and a dominant physical presence,”
adding that Sandmeyer’s maturity has enabled a smooth integration into the team and presents significant potential for advancement.
Sandmeyer joins a group of North Carolina alumni within the Chicago Fire organization, including Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter, as well as midfielders Mauricio Pineda and Sam Williams. The university’s strong soccer heritage, marked by two national championships and nine NCAA College Cup appearances, underscores this pipeline of talent.
Contract Details and Future Outlook
Sandmeyer’s agreement with Chicago Fire FC II lasts through the 2026 season, with a club option to extend into 2027. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 170 pounds, his defensive abilities and collegiate experience position him as a valuable asset for the club’s MLS NEXT Pro campaign. Observers anticipate that his development could soon warrant contributions at higher levels within the Chicago Fire structure or beyond.
