Former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch announced on Monday that he is retiring after six seasons in the NFL. The Cowboys had just released Vander Esch last Friday.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said in a statement on Monday: “Seldom do you come across a player like Leighton, who grew up playing eight-man football only to first play the 11-man game at the major collegiate level and excel. His passion and love for the game was contagious, and from the moment he arrived, he has been a difference maker. His grit, toughness, motivation, determination and football IQ will be sorely missed. Leighton also embodied the strong character and personal qualities that make him much more than an accomplished player. He was a leader and the kind of teammate that impacted those around him in the best ways. Leighton’s playing career may have come to an end, but his future is very bright. On behalf of the entire Dallas Cowboys organization, we’re proud that he wore the star on his helmet, we thank him and we wish all the best to Leighton, his wife, Madalynn, and their young daughter.”
Vander Esch was the 19th-overall pick by Dallas in the 2018 draft, where he spend his career. The linebacker earned a Pro Bowl nod and second-team All-Pro honors in his first season, but injuries have plagued him throughout his professional career. In his sophomore season at Boise State, Vander Esch’s neck issues began, forcing him to spend the rest of his career wearing a cowboy collar. He later experienced a nerve issue in his neck in his second NFL season, forcing him to undergo corrective surgery and ending his season; just one year later, Vander Esch broke his collarbone, playing only 10 games. His injuries eventually led the Cowboys to decline his fifth-year option; he went on to sign a one-year deal to return in 2022 when another neck injury cost him four games. In 2023, yet another neck issue led to Vander Esch playing only 5 games.
Vander Esch wrote in a letter included in the Cowboys’ press release announcing his retirement: “I realize that I am no longer able to adhere to the unwavering standard of excellence that professional football demands. I say this with a heavy heart: I am medically retiring from the NFL. I love the game of football so much, and my body won’t cooperate any longer. I cherished every moment of my NFL career, and it has been such a blessing to play the game for as long as I have played. This year, things may look a little different for me, but the sole focus is being a great husband and father for my loving family.”
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy said in a statement: “His leadership, character, perseverance, dedication and will to win were all at the highest level, not to mention his ability to play the game. Leighton impacted our team beyond defense. He set a tone that served as an example for all of our players about how we want to play. Having a teammate like Leighton is something everyone on our staff and in our locker room valued greatly, and we’re going to miss him. I wish Leighton, his wife Madalynn and their daughter the best and know that he’s going to continue living life to the fullest.”
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