The Dallas Cowboys have officially informed middle linebacker Leighton Vander Esch that he will be let go due to a failed physical designation, ESPN’s Todd Archer reports.
Vander Esch had a promising start to the 2023 season, starting in the Cowboys’ first five games. However, a neck issue sidelined him for the remainder of the year. Now, injuries have taken their toll on the former first-round pick, and ESPN reports that retirement is likely for him “in the coming weeks.”
Throughout his six seasons in the NFL, all spent with Dallas, Vander Esch showcased his talent, earning a Pro Bowl nod in his rookie year and establishing himself as a formidable force in tackling, excelling in both run defense and pass coverage. His career stats include 469 tackles, 13 passes defensed, 3.5 sacks, and 13 tackles for loss.
Unfortunately, neck problems have plagued Vander Esch since entering the league in 2018, significantly impacting his availability. He has only appeared in more than 10 games in three of his six NFL seasons, with a notable absence of seven games in 2019 due to a neck injury that required surgery.
By releasing Vander Esch, the Cowboys will free up $2.2 million against the salary cap, though they will also incur $2.2 million in dead money, as noted by Patrik Walker of the team’s official website.
The addition of linebacker Eric Kendricks likely signaled the end for Vander Esch in Dallas. Kendricks, who had previously agreed to terms with the San Francisco 49ers, joined the Cowboys on a one-year contract.
He brings his own Pro Bowl pedigree, having earned the honor in 2019, and recorded 117 tackles during the 2023 season with the Los Angeles Chargers. Moreover, Kendricks has history with new Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, having played under him during their time with the Minnesota Vikings from 2015 to 2021.
With his release from the Cowboys, Vander Esch is now free to explore opportunities with other teams, though retirement remains a distinct possibility given his injury history.
