Leighton Vander Esch, a linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, faced a significant setback in his career during the 2023 NFL season. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending neck injury in Week 5 while playing against the San Francisco 49ers on October 8. Despite being eligible to return from injured reserve, lingering symptoms prompted the Cowboys to make a tough decision and sideline him for the rest of the season.
The Road to Recovery
Leighton Vander Esch’s 2023 season is over due to a neck injury sustained in Week 5. Despite being eligible to return from injured reserve, the Cowboys have decided to prioritize his long-term well-being and have ruled him out for the remainder of the season. This decision comes after Vander Esch experienced lingering symptoms related to his neck injury.
Team owner Jerry Jones expressed the gravity of the situation, hinting that the injury could have long-term implications. Vander Esch’s injury history, including a previous neck issue in 2019, raises concerns about the future of his football career.
Who is Leighton Vander Esch?
Leighton Vander Esch is an American football linebacker, known for playing with the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League (NFL). Born on February 8, 1996, in Riggins, Idaho, Vander Esch stands 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 255 pounds. He played college football at Boise State and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft (19th overall).
Throughout his NFL career, Vander Esch has earned recognition for his contributions, including being selected to the Pro Bowl and earning Second-team All-Pro honors in his rookie season in 2018. As of the 2023 season, he has faced challenges with injuries, including a season-ending neck injury that has raised concerns about the future of his career.
| Full Name | Leighton Vander Esch |
| Date of Birth | February 8, 1996 |
| Age | 27 |
| Birthplace | Riggins, Idaho, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 255 lb (116 kg) |
| Position | Linebacker |
| College | Boise State (2014–2017) |
| NFL Draft | 2018 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19 |
| NFL Team | Dallas Cowboys (2018–present) |
| Roster Status | Injured Reserve |
The Early Years
Leighton Vander Esch was born and raised in Riggins, Idaho. Growing up, he attended Salmon River High School in Riggins, where he showcased his athleticism by participating in eight-man football, basketball, and track. Despite his small graduating class of 2014 with only eleven students, Vander Esch excelled in football, playing both quarterback and middle linebacker. His outstanding senior season included impressive stats, leading Salmon River to a state championship and earning him the title of All-Idaho 1A Division II Player of the Year.
In addition to his football prowess, Vander Esch made a mark in basketball, averaging 29.4 points and 11.1 rebounds per game during his senior year and securing consecutive 1A D2 state championships for Salmon River. This early success showcased Vander Esch’s versatility and athleticism, setting the stage for his future in collegiate and professional football.
The College Journey
Leighton Vander Esch’s football journey continued at Boise State University, where he walked on to the team. Despite a neck injury limiting his sophomore season in 2016, Vander Esch emerged as the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year during his junior year in 2017, making significant contributions as a starter at weak-side linebacker. His standout college career led him to forgo his senior season and enter the 2018 NFL Draft, where the Dallas Cowboys selected him in the first round.
Since joining the NFL, Vander Esch has been a key player for the Cowboys, setting a franchise rookie record for tackles in his first season. Despite facing injuries, including a nerve issue in 2019 and a broken collarbone in 2020, Vander Esch has continued to be a valuable asset to the team. His career has been marked by accolades, including Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors in 2018.
Assessing His Wealth
Leighton Vander Esch has a net worth of approximately $8 million, according to ‘Popular Net Worth.’ The linebacker, known for his consistent performance with the Dallas Cowboys, has spent his entire career with the team. Despite facing challenges such as a previous neck injury in 2019 and undergoing surgery in early 2020, Vander Esch continued to contribute to the team.
However, the recent season-ending neck injury in 2023 has cast doubt on the future of his football career. Vander Esch’s net worth reflects his success and tenure in the NFL, but his long-term financial outlook may be influenced by the uncertainties surrounding his playing career.
Family Ties
Leighton Vander Esch comes from Riggins, Idaho, and has roots in a close-knit family. Notably, his younger cousin, Caleb Vander Esch, followed in his footsteps, playing college football as a wide receiver at South Dakota and later professionally for the Arlington Renegades.
While specific details about Vander Esch’s immediate family might not be extensively available, his football career and family connections highlight the importance of sports in their lives.
Age and Its Implications
Born on February 8, 1996, Leighton Vander Esch is currently 27 years old. His age became a significant aspect of discussions, especially as he faced challenges with injuries, including a neck injury in the 2023 season.
Despite his relatively young age, the nature of his injuries has prompted considerations about the longevity and future of his NFL career. Vander Esch’s age also reflects the early success and accomplishments he achieved in both his high school and college football careers before entering the professional league.
FAQs
1. What happened to Leighton Vander Esch in the 2023 NFL season?
Leighton Vander Esch, the Dallas Cowboys linebacker, suffered a season-ending neck injury in Week 5.
2. How long is Vander Esch out for the season?
Leighton Vander Esch’s 2023 season is over due to the neck injury sustained in Week 5.
3. Who is Leighton Vander Esch?
Leighton Vander Esch is an American football linebacker.
4. What is Leighton Vander Esch’s net worth?
Leighton Vander Esch’s estimated net worth is $8 million approximately.
5. How old is Leighton Vander Esch?
Leighton Vander Esch is currently 27 years old.
In conclusion, Leighton Vander Esch’s 2023 NFL season ended prematurely due to a season-ending neck injury. The decision to prioritize his long-term well-being raises questions about his future in football, and his age adds an additional layer of uncertainty. Nonetheless, his career has been marked by success and accolades, making him a significant figure in the world of American football.
