The Dallas Cowboys may have pulled off one of the most underrated free agent signings of the offseason by landing linebacker Jack Sanborn for just $1.5 million. Despite flying under the radar, Sanborn could turn out to be a key asset in Dallas’ defensive lineup.
Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder recently highlighted Sanborn as the Cowboys’ “Best Kept Secret” heading into the 2025 season. Sanborn, who spent his first three NFL seasons with the Chicago Bears, joined Dallas on a one-year deal in March. Holder emphasized that limited starting experience in Chicago (just 19 starts) likely kept Sanborn’s market value low but his skills, especially in run defense, could make him a steal for the Cowboys.
Pro Football Focus gave Sanborn a 70.5 run-defense grade in 2024, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable run-stopper. Though listed behind Kenneth Murray Jr. on the depth chart at middle linebacker, Sanborn could see significant playing time potentially starting alongside Murray especially with DeMarvion Overshown recovering from a major knee injury suffered late last season.
Sanborn’s college résumé is impressive: a two-time All-Big Ten pick at Wisconsin, where he posted 91 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and 5.0 sacks in his senior year. Despite concerns about his speed (4.73 40-yard dash) and size (6-foot-2, 234 pounds), Sanborn made an immediate impact as an undrafted free agent in Chicago.
In his three seasons with the Bears, Sanborn played in 48 games and logged 164 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and five pass breakups. That’s impressive production for a player with just over $3.1 million in career earnings making his current contract with the Cowboys an incredible value.
With his toughness, football IQ, and proven ability to contribute, Sanborn could quietly become one of the most important additions to the Cowboys’ defense in 2025.
