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Cowboys may have to be saying an emotional goodbye to their star linebacker in just a matter of weeks due to a serious injury.
2018 draftee Leighton Vander Esch is expected to announce his retirement from the beloved sport imminently.
On October 8th, 2023, the linebacker suffered a serious neck injury in the 10-42 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Vander Esch rise to fame
Eight days later, after further tests, he was placed on the Cowboys’ injured reserve list.
One month later, owner Jerry Jones confirmed that Vander Esch would miss the remainder of the season.
The 28-year-old has been the heartbeat of the Cowboys’ defense for six seasons.
Not only an exceptional player, he was a personality in the locker room and a leader in the defensive huddle.
Furthermore, his talent was evident from his college days and the Cowboys selected him with their first pick.
In his rookie season, his outstanding performances rewarded him with a Second-Team All-Pro selection and a Pro Bowl appearance.
Devastatingly, Vander Esch suffered his first neck problem in 2019 after suffering a nerve issue.
Over the next few seasons, he would be hindered by the same injury and he wore the recognizable neck guard when playing.
Vander Esch to retire
Sources from ESPN say the defensive star will now be calling it a day.
In his absence, Markquese Bell was converted from safety to play as a makeshift linebacker.
Unquestionably, the Cowboys felt the absent presence of their linebacker.
This was made worse when fellow linebacker DeMarvion Overshown suffered an injury in training camp.
The Cowboys have now gone about addressing this situation during the offseason window.
Linebacker secured
Jerry Jones stole Eric Kendricks from the 49ers to their disbelief.
The contract was agreed upon with the West Coast franchise but Kendricks had a ‘change of heart’.
Mike Zimmer is now joined by his ex-player from his tenure at the Minnesota Vikings.
Ultimately, the linebacker issue is addressed for now.