“What a shame” – Cowboys LB Leighton Vander Esch’s retirement from the NFL results in fans loathing the team’s luck

Vander Esch played six years for the Cowboys but was inconsistent for the last three years owing to his neck issues.


“What a shame” – Cowboys LB Leighton Vander Esch’s retirement from the NFL results in fans loathing the team’s luck

Leighton Vander Esch (via Imago)

The Dallas Cowboys faced yet another setback in the free agency as the linebacker Leighton Vander Esch has announced his retirement from the NFL after a six-year career. His premature retirement comes due to the multiple neck issues he is facing. Vander Esch entered the league in 2018. The Cowboys drafted him with the 19th overall pick in the first round.

Vander Esch had a stellar rookie season as he had an immediate impact on the team. He had 176 tackles and made the Pro Bowl. While there is no doubt about his talent, his neck has always been a point of concern. Vander Esch had to sit out through seven games in 2019, four games in 2022, and did not play a snap after Week 5 in 2023 due to his injuries.

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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.
Leighton Vander Esch posted on Instagram

The Dallas Cowboys will miss Leighton Vander Esch

The 28-year-old who has earned the moniker ‘Wolf Hunter’ was expected to retire after his injury this season. He failed the team’s physical last week. While the linebacker wants to continue playing, his body refuses to cooperate with him. It will be difficult for the Dallas Cowboys to fill this void.

Leighton Van Esch
Leighton Vander Esch (via Imago)

Owner Jerry Jones described him as a player with “grit, toughness, and determination.” He wished him the very best for his future endeavors and was grateful for his contributions to the team.

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. 
Jones said in the official statement

Social media, too, had their say on this retirement news. Here’s how fans reacted to his announcement on X:

He walks away from the game with 496 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, three interceptions, and one touchdown. Vander Esch chose to leave the game of his own will rather than having to be forced into retirement. While it is sad to see him go, the hope is that he has a good life after football.

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