Jack Sanborn Exhibits Emerging Leadership Traits in Recent Conversation
As a somewhat overlooked figure within the Chicago Bears' linebacker squad, Jack Sanborn's progress has somewhat flown under the radar in recent months. This can be attributed in part to a season-ending injury that followed six commendable performances last season. Coupled with the significant reshuffling of the team's linebacking deck, including the introductions of Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards, doubts began to circulate about Sanborn's role, particularly given his switch from middle to outside linebacker. One might assume he'd feel somewhat sidelined as he recuperated from his injury.
Yet, during his recent conversation with Jim Miller and Tom Thayer on Bears Weekly, any such sentiments were notably absent. Probed about his takeaways from last season's game tapes and his upcoming goals as training camp looms, Sanborn expressed a desire to sharpen his mental acuity on the field, particularly in instances where his response time was a beat too slow. Moreover, he underscored the need to improve on the turnover front, having failed to force any during his six starts. In a rallying call to his defensive colleagues, he stressed the importance of doing better in this regard.
There's no arguing with Sanborn's sentiments. The Bears' defense, with a tally of 23 takeaways last season, trailed thirteen other teams. This tally falls short of the standard set by Matt Eberflus, the Bears' head coach, whose Indianapolis Colts' defense mustered a whopping 33 in 2021. The Bears squandered numerous opportunities last season, with Sanborn implicated in some of them. If they aspire to ascend to the next level as a defense, capitalizing on these chances is paramount. More takeaways generally equate to more victories. This theory is substantiated by the fact that nine out of the top eleven teams in terms of takeaways made the playoffs last year.
Eberflus is well aware of this, as is Sanborn. At college level, Sanborn demonstrated a knack for forcing turnovers. Now, the challenge lies in transferring this skill to a new role on the field. Known for his strategic prowess, derived largely from diligent film study, he may need time to acclimatize to the outside linebacker position. Yet, ruling him out would be ill-advised. His initial hurdle will involve warding off rookie Noah Sewell to retain his spot. This encounter should prime him for the arduous season that lies ahead, with hopes high that he'll lead the charge in the turnover department.
| POLL | ||
18 JUILLET | 38 ANSWERS Jack Sanborn Exhibits Emerging Leadership Traits in Recent Conversation Will Jack Sanborn lead the team in tackles this season? | ||
| Yes | 18 | 47.4 % |
| No | 20 | 52.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
