Jack Sanborn Bio
Jack Sanborn is an American professional football linebacker currently playing for the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at the University of Wisconsin, where he earned multiple All-Big Ten honors before beginning his professional career in 2022. Sanborn has quickly established himself as a versatile and impactful linebacker in the NFL.
Early Life and Background
Jack Sanborn was born on July 29, 2000, in Lake Zurich, Illinois, and grew up in nearby Deer Park. His father, Paul Sanborn, who played college football as an offensive lineman at the University of Oregon, passed away when Jack was four years old. Raised by his mother, Sanborn developed a passion for football early on. He attended Lake Zurich High School, where he had an outstanding football career, recording 296 tackles and 13 sacks over three varsity seasons. As a senior, he was named the Pioneer Press Defensive Player of the Year after tallying 120 tackles and three sacks, and he played in the Illinois State Football Championship.
Path to American Football
Rated as a four-star recruit, Sanborn committed to the University of Wisconsin, choosing the Badgers over several other Power Five offers. His college career began with participation in 11 games as a freshman, and he quickly became a defensive leader. By his sophomore year, he led Wisconsin in tackles with 80, adding nine tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. His junior season earned him third-team All-Big Ten honors, and as a senior, he was named first-team All-Big Ten after recording 91 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and five sacks. Following his senior year, Sanborn declared for the 2022 NFL Draft.
Jack Sanborn Career
Early Career (2022–Present)
Despite going undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft, Jack Sanborn signed with the Chicago Bears as a free agent. He made the Bears’ 53-man roster and became the starting middle linebacker after the trade of Roquan Smith. In his first career start on November 13, 2022, Sanborn recorded two sacks and 12 tackles in a close loss to the Detroit Lions. Unfortunately, his rookie season was cut short by a season-ending ankle injury in December. He finished the 2022 season with 64 tackles and two sacks and was named to Pro Football Focus’s All-Rookie Team.
In the 2023 season, Sanborn transitioned to strong-side linebacker as the Bears added new talent to their linebacker group. He started all 17 games, registering 65 tackles, one interception, one sack, and seven tackles for loss. His performance earned him a spot on ESPN’s 2023 All-Youngster Team, highlighting the league’s top players aged 24 and under. In 2024, Sanborn played in all 17 games with three starts, recording 35 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two tackles for loss. After the season, the Bears declined to tender him, making him a free agent.
Dallas Cowboys Era (2025–Present)
On March 12, 2025, Jack Sanborn signed with the Dallas Cowboys. Early in the season, he was placed on injured reserve on November 3 due to a groin injury. Sanborn’s role with the Cowboys is anticipated to grow as he recovers and integrates into the team’s defensive scheme.
Playing Style and Strengths
Jack Sanborn is known for his versatility and football intelligence, excelling in both middle and strong-side linebacker roles. He demonstrates strong tackling ability, effective pass-rushing skills, and solid coverage in the linebacker position. His adaptability to different linebacker positions and schemes, combined with his work ethic, has made him a valuable asset to his teams.
Notable Events and Milestones
Sanborn’s first career start was a standout performance with two sacks and 12 tackles. His selection to the Pro Football Focus All-Rookie Team and ESPN’s All-Youngster Team highlight his rapid development and impact in the NFL. Winning the Brian Piccolo Award in 2022 further recognizes his character and contributions on and off the field.
Jack Sanborn Career Wins
Professional Highlights
While linebacker statistics do not include traditional wins, Sanborn’s career achievements include being a key defensive contributor for his teams. His rookie season performance and subsequent full-season starts demonstrate his growth and reliability as a professional player.
College Highlights
At Wisconsin, Sanborn was a two-time leading tackler for the Badgers and earned first-team All-Big Ten honors as a senior. His collegiate career was marked by consistent production, leadership, and recognition within a competitive conference.
Jack Sanborn Family
Family Background and Football Lineage
Jack Sanborn’s father, Paul Sanborn, played college football as an offensive lineman at the University of Oregon, contributing to Jack’s early exposure to the sport. His younger brother, Bryan Sanborn, also plays linebacker at Wisconsin, continuing the family’s football tradition.
Personal Life
Details about Jack Sanborn’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. He remains focused on his professional football career.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Jack Sanborn joined the Dallas Cowboys, aiming to establish himself within their linebacker corps. Early in the season, he faced a setback due to a groin injury that placed him on injured reserve. The Cowboys and Sanborn will look to his recovery and future contributions as key to their defensive plans. His experience and versatility are expected to provide depth and leadership as he returns to full health.
