The Chicago Bears made their first move in free agency as they’re expected to sign linebacker T.J. Edwards to a three-year deal worth $19.5 million.
Edwards comes to Chicago with the expectation that he’ll serve as the MIKE linebacker in Matt Eberflus’ defense. Edwards is also reunited with former Wisconsin teammate Jack Sanborn, who was a rookie standout for the Bears last season.
Sanborn and Edwards have a lot in common. Both played at Wisconsin (including for one year together in 2018). Both were undrafted free agents. Both are homegrown products who grew up Bears fans. Now, they’ll anchor Chicago’s linebacker corps.
It’s safe to say Sanborn is excited about the addition of Edwards, as he took to Twitter to share his reaction. (Those are badgers, in case you were wondering.)
— Jack Sanborn (@JackSanborn79) March 13, 2023
Edwards was one of the top-graded linebackers last season, earning a 84.8 grade from Pro Football Focus. Last season, Edwards totaled 159 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, two sacks and seven pass breakups.
With Edwards likely playing the MIKE spot — and Brad Biggs not ruling out the addition of Bobby Okereke at WILL — Sanborn could fill that SAM linebacker role.
