Player Card

Fantasy Player Profile Leighton Vander Esch

  • Leighton Vander Esch
  • LB #55
  • Leighton
    Vander Esch
  • IRInjured Reserve
  • Manager: FA
  •  
vs. PHI: #20 vs opposing LB - 21.83 FPA
Bye Week7Rank106% Rostered-% Change-WK 13 Pts0.00WK 14 Proj. Pts0.00
2023 Fantasy Stats
   Fantasy
WkOppResultsPts
1@NYG
Win, 40-0
6.00
2NYJ
Win, 30-10
3.00
3@ARI
Loss, 16-28
2.00
4NE
Win, 38-3
13.50
5@SF
Loss, 10-42
7.00
6@LAC
Win, 20-17
0.00
7Bye  0.00
8LA
Win, 43-20
0.00
9@PHI
Loss, 23-28
0.00
10NYG
Win, 49-17
0.00
11@CAR
Win, 33-10
0.00
12WAS
Win, 45-10
0.00
13SEA
Win, 41-35
0.00
14PHI
Sun 5:20 pmGet Tickets
0.00
15@BUF
Sun 1:25 pmGet Tickets
0.00
16@MIA
Sun 1:25 pmGet Tickets
0.00
17DET
Sat 5:15 pmGet Tickets
0.00
18@WAS
TBDGet Tickets
0.00
2023 Fantasy Stats
  TacklesTurnoverFantasy
WkOppTotSckIntFrc FumFum RecPts
1@NYG,
W 40-0
6----6.00
2NYJ,
W 30-10
2----3.00
3@ARI,
L 16-28
1----2.00
4NE,
W 38-3
4---113.50
5@SF,
L 10-42
4----7.00
6@LAC,
W 20-17
-----0.00
7Bye-----0.00
8LA,
W 43-20
-----0.00
9@PHI,
L 23-28
-----0.00
10NYG,
W 49-17
-----0.00
11@CAR,
W 33-10
-----0.00
12WAS,
W 45-10
-----0.00
13SEA,
W 41-35
-----0.00
14PHI,
Sun 5:20 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
15@BUF,
Sun 1:25 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
16@MIA,
Sun 1:25 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
17DET,
Sat 5:15 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
18@WAS,
TBDGet Tickets
-----0.00
  • 16.00
  • 23.00
  • 32.00
  • 413.50
  • 57.00
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
  • 11
  • 12
  • 13
  • 14
Fantasy Points
  1. 1
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  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7 Bye
  8. 8
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News

  • Won't return this season

    Vander Esch (neck) is officially out for the season, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stated Tuesday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch, who has a long history of neck injuries and was born with cervical spinal stenosis, was not expected back anytime soon despite being eligible to return from injured reserve this week. There is concern that this latest neck injury may force the 27-year-old into retirement, but Jones declined to comment when asked about that possibility.

    Published: Tue, Nov 14 at 7:54am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Return not imminent

    Vander Esch (neck) remains without a concrete timeline for a potential return from injured reserve, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The only certainty regarding Vander Esch and a potential return is that it will not occur within the next couple weeks. He has a history of neck issues and sustained another one in Week 5 against the 49ers, so it is not surprising to see the Cowboys err on the side of caution here. Thus, Damone Clark will continue to fill in on the edge opposite Micah Parsons for the foreseeable future.

    Published: Mon, Nov 6 at 3:22pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Placed on injured reserve

    The Cowboys placed Vander Esch (neck) on injured reserve Monday.

    Analysis: Vander Esch has a history of neck issues and sustained yet another such injury in Week 5 against San Francisco. He'll be required to miss at least the next four games and won't be eligible to return until Week 11 against the Panthers. Rashaan Evans was added to the practice squad recently give the Cowboys some experienced depth at the position.

    Published: Mon, Oct 16 at 3:10pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Move to IR on tap

    Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy said Thursday that Vander Esch (neck) will be placed on injured reserve, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Dallas may not make the transaction official until later in the week, but once Vander Esch is placed on IR, he'll be sidelined for the next four games, at minimum. According to Gehlken, Vander Esch's neck injury is expected to entail a 4-to-6-week recovery process, so he may not be a safe bet to return from IR when first eligible to play Nov. 19 versus the Panthers in Week 11. The Cowboys signed Rashaan Evans to their practice squad Thursday, and he could be elevated for Monday's game against…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 12 at 11:09am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected to land on IR

    The Cowboys are expected to place Vander Esch (neck) on injured reserve, Michael Gehlken and Calvin Watkins of DallasNews.com reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch injured his neck in the second half of Sunday's Week 5 loss to the 49ers after colliding with teammate Micah Parsons. He subsequently underwent X-rays, which fortunately were negative. However, he was born with cervical spinal stenosis, which leads to increased pinched nerves, and has dealt with neck issues since college. As a result, the Cowboys appear in line to exercise caution with their starting weak-side linebacker by sending him to IR to focus on a full recovery. His absence…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 9 at 3:36pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Unlikely to return

    Vander Esch (neck) is questionable to return to Sunday's contest with the 49ers, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch suffered a neck injury in the second half of Sunday's Week 6 game in San Francisco and he's unlikely to return. He finishes the contest with 10 tackles (four solo), his first game this season in double digits.

    Published: Sun, Oct 8 at 8:06pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Scores first career TD in rout

    Vander Esch recorded a team-high seven tackles (four solo) and returned a fumble 11 yards for a touchdown in Sunday's 38-3 win over the Patriots.

    Analysis: The second-quarter TD was the first of two defensive scores for the Cowboys in the second quarter as they put the game away before halftime, and it was also the first touchdown of Vander Esch's career. The veteran linebacker only has 20 tackles through four games, but Dallas has dominated three of those contests and the defense hasn't been on the field all that much. That could change in Week 5 against the undefeated 49ers, as Vander Esch and the rest of the Cowboys' linebacking corps try to…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 2 at 8:02am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Six solo tackles in win

    Vander Esch recorded six solo tackles in the Cowboys' 40-0 win over the Giants on Sunday night.

    Analysis: In what was a lopsided contest, Vander Esch was still able to get six stops while playing 47 total defensive snaps. The 27-year-old is coming off of a 2022 campaign where he notched 90 tackles, a figure that he'll look to challenge in 2023.

    Published: Tue, Sep 12 at 7:37pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Staying in Dallas

    Vander Esch is set to re-sign a two-year deal with $11 million with the Cowboys, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch missed three games last year and 17 games over the past four seasons, but he's been a strong run defender for the Cowboys. Although he's never come close to matching the 140 tackles he had as a rookie, the 90 stops he posted in 2022 represented the second-best season of his career. Going into his age-27 season, he'll remain an anchor for the team at middle linebacker.

    Published: Tue, Mar 14 at 3:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Puts together strong campaign

    Vander Esch recorded 90 tackles (54 solo), including one sack, with one pass defended and one forced fumble over 14 regular-season games in 2022.

    Analysis: The 26-year-old linebacker once again dealt with some neck issues, missing the final three games of the regular season due to a pinched nerve, but he returned for the playoffs and racked up 20 tackles across the Cowboys' two postseason contests. The late absences cost Vander Esch a chance to hit triple-digit tackles for the second time in his career, but it still was a good season overall. After playing 2022 under a one-year, $2 million prove-it deal, Vander Esch may have done enough to earn a…read more

    Published: Tue, Jan 31 at 12:34pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Full go to open playoff prep

    Vander Esch (neck) was a full participant during the Cowboys' practice Thursday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch missed the final three games of the regular season with a pinched nerve in his neck suffered Week 15 against Jacksonville. Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy said Monday that the linebacker was one of three starters expected to return in time for Monday's wild-card bout against Tampa Bay, and he appears to be right on schedule heading into this game. Vander Esch recorded 90 tackles across 14 games during the regular season, marking his most significant production since his 140-tackle…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 12 at 1:50pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Trending toward return for playoffs

    Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy said Monday that he's "very optimistic" about Vander Esch's (neck) status heading into the wild-card round of the playoffs, Patrik Walker of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch sustained a pinched nerve in his neck during the Week 15 loss to Jacksonville, leaving him sidelined for the final three games of the regular season. The 26-year-old now appears to be one of three Cowboys starters that are nearing a return from injury, as McCarthy said Vander Esch, center Tyler Biadasz (ankle) and defensive lineman Johnathan Hankins (pectoral) all "looked very positive" Monday. He also added that the team would see where they're at during Wednesday's practice, which…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 9 at 5:09pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Out again

    Vander Esch (neck) has been ruled out for Sunday's matchup against the Commanders.

    Analysis: Vander Esch will miss a third straight game due to a neck injury he suffered during the team's Week 15 loss to Jacksonville. Damone Clark figures to remain a prominent part of Dallas' defense until Vander Esch is able to return.

    Published: Fri, Jan 6 at 12:42pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Officially ruled out

    Vander Esch (neck) has been ruled out for Thursday's matchup against the Titans, Jane Slater of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch didn't practice during Week 17 prep due to a neck injury and wasn't expected to play Thursday, so it's not surprising to see him officially ruled out. Micah Parsons (hand) is questionable, so the Cowboys may be without two of their starting linebackers for Thursday's primetime matchup against Tennessee.

    Published: Wed, Dec 28 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Unlikely to play Thursday

    Vander Esch (neck) did some resistance work at practice Tuesday but was labeled as DNP and isn't expected to play Thursday versus Tennessee, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch is dealing with a stinger that kept him sidelined for last week's win over the Eagles and has resulted in a pair of DNPs at practice so far this week. Given that Dallas plays the Titans on Thursday Night Football, it appears likely that the linebacker will be forced to miss another contest. Damone Clark is likely to again see more work if Vander Esch indeed remains out.

    Published: Tue, Dec 27 at 12:34pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't play Week 16

    Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy ruled out Vander Esch (shoulder) for Saturday's game against the Eagles, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch was forced out during Sunday's loss to the Jaguars after he sustained a pinched nerve in his shoulder. While it's unclear how long this issue will keep the 26-year-old sidelined, he'll now sit out until at least Dallas' Week 17 game against Tennessee on Thursday Night Football. Vander Esch recorded 90 tackles, one sack and a pass defended over the first 13 games of the season, so his absence will likely leave Damone Clark to step into a bigger role for the time being.

    Published: Mon, Dec 19 at 3:24pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Avoids neck injury

    Vander Esch suffered a right shoulder stinger in Sunday's 40-34 loss to the Jaguars, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: In a positive turn of events, Vander Esch did not suffer a neck injury as originally reported, but he sustained a pinched nerve in his trapezius in his shoulder instead, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports. After having surgery on his neck in 2019, another neck injury could have sidelined him for an extended period of time, so Monday's diagnosis is good news overall. The linebacker may still miss some time while nursing the shoulder injury, and if he's out for Week 16, Damone Clark will likely play…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 19 at 9:49am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Done for the day

    Vander Esch (neck) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Jaguars, Patrik Walker reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch departed Sunday's contest versus Jacksonville during the first quarter with a neck injury, and it's since been revealed that he won't return to action for the rest of the afternoon. Damone Clark is now in line for additional linebacker snaps alongside Anthony Barr and Micah Parsons.

    Published: Sun, Dec 18 at 11:41am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Exits with injury

    Vander Esch is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Jaguars with a neck injury, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports

    Analysis: Vander Esch was escorted to the locker room during the first quarter, per Gehlken, though the exact nature of this neck issue is still unclear. In his absence, Damone Clark will likely step up into a bigger role between fellow linebackers Anthony Barr and Micah Parsons.

    Published: Sun, Dec 18 at 10:31am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Racks up 14 tackles in win

    Vander Esch recorded 14 tackles (nine solo) in Sunday's win over the Texans.

    Analysis: He dominated from the middle of the Dallas defense against a run-heavy Houston game plan, setting a new season high in tackles and posting his best performance in that category since his rookie season. Vander Esch is up to 90 tackles on the year and is closing in on his second career campaign with triple digits, a figure he could reach in Week 15 against the Jaguars.

    Published: Mon, Dec 12 at 10:30am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Available Sunday

    Vander Esch (illness) is officially active for Sunday's game against the Texans, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch was considered questionable after he was added to the injury report Friday with an illness, though he'll still be available for Sunday's contest. The 26-year-old recorded only one tackle against the Colts last week, and has 76 tackles (45 solo), one sack and one forced fumble through 12 games this year.

    Published: Sun, Dec 11 at 8:52am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Picks up illness

    Vander Esch is questionable for Sunday's game against the Texans due to an illness, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch was added to the injury report Friday due to an illness and is now in jeopardy of missing Sunday's contest. If he's sidelined, Damone Clark, Jabril Cox and Luke Gifford would emerge as options for increased snaps.

    Published: Fri, Dec 9 at 2:46pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Leads Cowboys in tackles

    Vander Esch recorded eight tackles (five solo) during the Cowboys' 28-20 win over the Giants on Thursday.

    Analysis: Vander Esch matched his season low with three tackles during last week's blowout win over Minnesota, but he bounced back during the Cowboys' Thanksgiving Day win. He's recorded at least five tackles in all but two of his appearances this year and has logged 75 tackles (44 solo), including a sack, along with a pass defense and forced fumble.

    Published: Mon, Nov 28 at 7:11am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Forces fumble in win

    Vander Esch forced a fumble and logged eight tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 49-29 win against the Bears.

    Analysis: The 26-year-old forced his first turnover of the season as he stripped the ball loose from running back David Montgomery in the third quarter, which was returned 36 yards for a touchdown by fellow linebacker Micah Parsons. Vander Esch has now recorded at least eight tackles in four of his eight games this season, and he should be on pace to record over 100 total stops for the first time since his breakout rookie campaign.

    Published: Tue, Nov 1 at 5:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Double-digit tackles in win

    Vander Esch recorded a team-high 10 tackles (seven solo) in Sunday's win over the Lions.

    Analysis: The fifth-year linebacker is having a resurgent campaign as the Cowboys' primary option in the middle of the defense while Micah Parsons gets deployed all over the field in a variety of roles. This was the first game this season in which Vander Esch reached double digits in tackles, but he's up to 49 stops through seven games -- if he can stay healthy, he's on pace for his best total since he piled up 140 tackles as a rookie in 2018.

    Published: Mon, Oct 24 at 8:30am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Productive in Sunday's win

    Vander Esch recorded seven tackles, including one sack, and one pass defended in Sunday's win over the Bengals.

    Analysis: The 26-year-old has put together two strong IDP performances in a row to begin the season after he racked up nine tackles in Week 1. With Micah Parsons increasingly being used as a pass rusher, Vander Esch is left to fill the middle linebacker role in the Dallas defense, and while his injury history makes him tough to rely on, he should continue to produce as long as he's on the field.

    Published: Mon, Sep 19 at 9:04am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Re-signed by Cowboys

    Vander Esch and the Cowboys agreed to terms on a one-year contract Friday, the Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch will thus return to a defensive scheme he knows well in 2022. The 2018 first-round pick finally managed to suit up for a full 17-game campaign last year, albeit while playing a more rotational role, though he did handle at least 75 percent of defensive snaps in the final three games of the regular season. Though Vander Esch's fantasy value has diminished in IDP formats, it will be worth monitoring the 26-year-old's involvement in OTAs and mini-camp, in the event he shows signs of…read more

    Published: Fri, Mar 18 at 8:39am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Plays full 17-game slate

    Vander Esch racked up 77 tackles (48 solo), one sack, two pass breakups and one interception across 17 games in 2021.

    Analysis: Vander Esch managed to play a full season in 2021 after having handled just 19 combined appearances from 2019-20, though he also played a significantly more limited role on defense. As a result, he fell out of consideration as a consistent fantasy IDP asset. The soon-to-be 26-year-old is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, though, and a change of environment potentially could prove to be to his benefit.

    Published: Mon, Jan 24 at 9:43am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Leading tackler in Sunday's loss

    Vander Esch recorded 10 tackles (eight solo) in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals.

    Analysis: It's only the second time this season Vander Esch has reached double-digit tackles in a game. The fourth-year linebacker has 71 tackles in 16 games this season, and while he's been able to stay healthy thanks to a more limited role (he hasn't played 50 snaps in any game this year), he's no longer a consistent IDP asset as a result.

    Published: Mon, Jan 3 at 2:22pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dozen tackles against Denver

    Vander Esch recorded 12 tackles (seven solo) in Sunday's loss to the Broncos.

    Analysis: A woeful effort by the Dallas offense led to a lot of rushing attempts for Denver in the second half, and Vander Esch took advantage by leading the Cowboys in tackles and posting his first double-digit performance of the season. Micah Parsons has emerged as the clear leader of the team's linebacking corps, but LVE is still capable of solid IDP numbers when game flow works in his favor.

    Published: Mon, Nov 8 at 10:23am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Takes down Herbert

    Vander Esch recorded seven tackles (four solo) and a sack in Sunday's 20-17 overtime win against the Chargers.

    Analysis: Vander Esch logged 22 percent of the snaps in Week 1, but he bumped up to 47 percent in Week 2 after Micah Parsons was moved to defensive end in place of DeMarcus Lawrence (foot). While Vander Esch showed well, he's still behind Keanu Neal and Jaylon Smith in the linebacker pecking order.

    Published: Tue, Sep 21 at 9:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared for Week 1

    Vander Esch (illness) isn't listed on Monday's injury report, David Helman of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch missed some time during the preseason due to an illness, but his absence from the injury report indicates he's fully recovered. The 25-year-old posted 140 tackles (102 solo) as a rookie in 2018; however, he's been limited to 19 games over the past two years due to injuries, so it's significant that he's entering the season healthy.

    Published: Mon, Sep 6 at 2:45pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses Sunday's game

    Vander Esch didn't appear in Sunday's preseason loss to the Jaguars due to an illness, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch was limited in Saturday's practice due to an illness, and the team elected to keep him out of the preseason finale. The 2018 first-rounder has played more on the weak side during the offseason, but the Cowboys haven't yet indicated whether his illness will impact his availability for Week 1 against Tampa Bay.

    Published: Sun, Aug 29 at 6:24pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Moving back to weakside

    Vander Esch has primarily been playing the weak side with the Cowboys' first-team defense during OTAs, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The linebacker has looked healthy this offseason, and a shift out of the middle could help him regain the IDP form that saw him rack up 212 tackles in 25 games over his first two NFL seasons. Dallas has a crowded linebacker room, though, including the addition of first-round pick Micah Parsons, and Vander Esch could well find himself seeing fewer snaps per game in an effort to keep him on the field after two injury-plagued campaigns.

    Published: Mon, Jun 14 at 8:19am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Fifth-year option declined

    The Cowboys have declined Vander Esch's team option for 2022, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch's fifth-year option would have cost the Cowboys $9.145 million guaranteed for 2022, too steep a price for a player who missed 13 combined games over the last two seasons. With Dallas having selected Micah Parsons in the first round of this year's draft and Keanu Neal switching to linebacker, Vander Esch is staring down a contract year in which he could face real competition for snaps.

    Published: Mon, May 3 at 12:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Recovered from ankle injury

    Vander Esch no longer has an injury designation, David Helman of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: After spending a handful of games in 2020 on the sidelines due to various injuries, Vander Esch is good to go for the upcoming year. In his 10 matchups during last season, the linebacker recorded 60 tackles (32 solo), one sack and one forced fumble. When healthy, Vander Esch flashed promise, posting a career high in tackles in 2019 (140) and seven pass breakups through 16 games.

    Published: Fri, Mar 26 at 10:58am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Battles through injuries again

    Vander Esch recorded 60 tackles (32 solo) while adding a sack and a forced fumble over 10 games in 2020.

    Analysis: The linebacker once again couldn't stay healthy, suffering a broken collarbone in Week 1 and then missing the final two games of the year with an ankle injury, but Vander Esch also wasn't as productive when he was on the field, and he only managed two games with double-digit tackles as his snap count was often limited. The Cowboys are bringing in a new defensive coordinator in Dan Quinn, which should help the unit's performance as a whole, but if LVE can't avoid landing on IR a couple times a…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 17 at 8:42am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't play Week 17

    Vander Esch (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Giants, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

    Analysis: The 24-year-old will be sidelined for the second consecutive game to finish the regular season. The Cowboys will need to make the playoffs for Vander Esch to have a chance of returning to the field this season.

    Published: Fri, Jan 1 at 2:08pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not practicing to start week

    Vander Esch (ankle) was unable to practice Wednesday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 15, and coach Mike McCarthy said the injury would likely lead to a multiweek absence. Considering the linebacker hasn't practiced or played since, it's looking increasingly unlikely that he'll be able to shorten that timetable, though there are still two more practices left for Vander Esch to show progress before Sunday's game against the Giants.

    Published: Wed, Dec 30 at 11:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Officially out Week 16

    Vander Esch (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Coach Mike McCarthy indicated earlier this week Vander Esch could miss multiple weeks after suffering the high-ankle sprain Week 15, so it's no surprise he won't be suiting up. The 24-year-old could also be forced to miss the final game of the regular season next week. Joe Thomas could have an increased defensive role for the Cowboys.

    Published: Fri, Dec 25 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected out multiple weeks

    Coach Mike McCarthy does not anticipate Vander Esch will be able to suit up Week 16 against the Eagles with his high-ankle sprain, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The Boise State product departed during the third quarter of Sunday's 41-33 win over San Francisco, and a subsequent MRI revealed Vander Esch sustained a multi-week injury in the form of a high-ankle sprain. As such, it wouldn't be a surprise if the 24-year-old proved unable to return over the remainder of the regular season. Should the Cowboys remain alive in the playoff hunt heading into Week 17, it's possible a quicker turnaround is contemplated for the star linebacker.

    Published: Mon, Dec 21 at 3:32pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dealing with high-ankle sprain

    Vander Esch suffered a high-ankle sprain in Sunday's 41-33 win over the 49ers, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch underwent an MRI on Monday that revealed the extent of his injury. The Cowboys aren't ruling him out for the Week 16 showdown against the Eagles, but it's tough to see a way that he'll be at 100 percent for the critical divisional matchup. If he's out or limited in that game, Sean Lee will be the main beneficiary. Lee filled in at middle linebacker when Vander Esch exited Sunday.

    Published: Mon, Dec 21 at 12:24pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Will undergo MRI on ankle

    Vander Esch is set to get an MRI on his injured ankle Monday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: The 2018 Pro Bowler stated postgame that he does not believe he suffered a broken ankle during Sunday's win over San Francisco, characterizing his injury as a high-ankle issue of some kind. An inability to stay on the field has plagued the 24-year-old linebacker, as he sat out seven games last season with a cervical neck stinger before going on IR in mid-September because of a broken collarbone. Joe Thomas would likely step back into the middle linebacker spot if Vander Esch were to miss…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 20 at 4:51pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Battling ankle sprain

    Vander Esch suffered a sprained ankle in Sunday's 41-33 win over the 49ers, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch went to the locker room in the third quarter after posting three tackles (one solo). Sean Lee came in as relief. Vander Esch has a lengthy history of injuries, and it'll be worth keeping an eye on his progress during the practice week ahead of next week's matchup against the Eagles.

    Published: Sun, Dec 20 at 2:40pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Hit with ankle injury

    Vander Esch (ankle) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against San Francisco, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: The 2018 Pro Bowler sustained his injury while assisting on a tackle of 49ers back Tevin Coleman at the 5:26 mark of the third quarter. Dallas has already endured four full games this season without the services of Vander Esch, and for now, Joe Thomas fills the 24-year-old's middle linebacker position.

    Published: Sun, Dec 20 at 12:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leads Dallas defense again

    Vander Esch recorded 12 tackles (four solo) in Sunday's win over the Vikings.

    Analysis: He's picked up a dozen tackles in back-to-back games since the Cowboys' bye, and Vander Esch appears to be back in form after his early-season collarbone injury. He'll look to deliver another strong IDP performance in a Thanksgiving Day clash with Washington, which he also collected 12 tackles against in the teams' first meeting back in Week 7.

    Published: Mon, Nov 23 at 11:51am by Rotowire.com
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  • Dozen tackles in ugly loss

    Vander Esch racked up 12 tackles (nine solo) in Sunday's loss to Washington.

    Analysis: With the Dallas offense only generating three points on the afternoon, the defense was rarely off the field, giving Vander Esch a chance to post strong IDP numbers. Having fully recovered from the broken collarbone he suffered in Week 1, LVE should resume his role at the heart of a Cowboys defense that has been one of the worst units in the league so far this season.

    Published: Mon, Oct 26 at 9:58am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expects no limitations Sunday

    Vander Esch said he "should be in there full time" Sunday against Washington, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: The 24-year-old returned from injured reserve and played 32 of 62 defensive snaps during Monday's loss to the Cardinals, but he doesn't expect to face the same limitations during this weekend's divisional matchup. Vander Esch should bring some stability to the middle of a Dallas defense that has struggled all season.

    Published: Fri, Oct 23 at 12:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Three tackles in return

    Vander Esch had three tackles (two solo) and one pass breakup during Monday's 38-10 loss to Arizona.

    Analysis: The 24-year-old returned from a four-game absence Monday and played 32 of 62 defensive snaps. Vander Esch missed about a month due to the collarbone injury, and it appears the Cowboys were easing him back into the fold. He should continue to ramp up his workload against Washington in Week 7.

    Published: Tue, Oct 20 at 8:36pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returning to action

    Vander Esch (collarbone) is listed as active Monday against the Cardinals.

    Analysis: Vander Esch is the linchpin of the Dallas defense, but he's also only played in three of the team's previous 14 games dating back to last season due to injury. For his career, he's averaged 8.7 tackles per game, so he's a decent enough bet to make an impact in the IDP realm in his first appearance since Week 1.

    Published: Mon, Oct 19 at 4:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Lifted from IR

    Vander Esch (collarbone) was activated from injured reserve Monday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch is slated to return to the lineup for the first time since fracturing his collarbone in Week 1. It's unclear if the oft-injured middle linebacker will immediately step back into an every-down role, but he should at least start for the Cowboys defense. If he does start, Vander Esch should be considered a solid IDP option, as he averaged 8.5 tackles per game over his first two NFL seasons.

    Published: Mon, Oct 19 at 12:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Hopeful for Monday

    The Cowboys are hopeful regarding Vander Esch's (collarbone) chances of returning for Monday's matchup with the Cardinals, Rob Phillips of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch appears to be trending toward a return off injured reserve, as he has suffered no setbacks at practice this week. Still, the team has yet to activate him. He has been sidelined since fracturing his collarbone in Week 1.

    Published: Sat, Oct 17 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
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  • Practices again Thursday

    Vander Esch (collarbone) practiced Thursday, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: The Cowboys are slated to practice in pads Friday, per Jane Slater of NFL Network. Once the team gets a chance to see how Vander Esch holds up in yet another padded session -- he did the same last Thursday -- he could be activated from IR this weekend in advance of Monday's game versus the Cardinals. Vander Esch hasn't played since fracturing his collarbone Week 1.

    Published: Thu, Oct 15 at 10:23am by Rotowire.com
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  • Targeting Week 6 return

    Coach Mike McCarthy said Friday that Vander Esch (collarbone) will try to ramp up his practice activity next week in hopes of facing the Cardinals on Oct. 19, Clarence E. Hill Jr. of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

    Analysis: Dallas' Week 6 game against Arizona is scheduled for Monday night, so Vander Esch will get the benefit of an additional day to get healthy. The Cowboys officially opened the star linebacker's 21-day window for return Wednesday, and while it looks as though there's no chance of Vander Esch playing against the Giants on Sunday, the team may not have to wait long before getting him back on the field.

    Published: Fri, Oct 9 at 9:16am by Rotowire.com
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  • Dons pads at Thursday's practice

    Vander Esch wore pads at Thursday's practice for the first time since he fractured his collarbone during Week 1 action, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Among his drills, Vander Esch put in some cardio, hit the sled and took part in the turnover circuit. The Cowboys officially opened his 21-day window to be activated from injured reserve Wednesday, but they want to be sure he can hit again without breaking his collarbone before clearing him for game action, which seems unlikely to happen this Sunday against the Giants, per Jane Slater of NFL Network.

    Published: Thu, Oct 8 at 10:14am by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared to resume practicing

    The Cowboys designated Vander Esch (collarbone) to return from injured reserve Wednesday, Rob Phillips of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: The transaction kicks off a 21-day window wherein the Cowboys can evaluate Vander Esch at practice. He can be added the 53-man roster at any time during that three-week window, or else he'll revert back to IR for the remainder of the season. The star linebacker underwent surgery to repair a broken collarbone mid-September, and while he's technically eligible to return to the field as early as Sunday's game against the Giants, Vander Esch could need more recovery time.

    Published: Wed, Oct 7 at 2:12pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sent to IR

    The Cowboys placed Vander Esch (collarbone) on injured reserve Tuesday, David Helman of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch will undergo surgery to repair his broken collarbone and miss six to eight weeks. The 24-year-old linebacker has struggled to stay healthy since the beginning of last season, as he battled a neck injury in 2019 that kept him out of seven games before having offseason surgery. For the time being Joe Thomas is slated to start at middle linebacker in Vander Esch's place.

    Published: Tue, Sep 15 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Will undergo surgery

    Vander Esch is expected to miss 6-to-8 weeks following surgery to repair his broken collarbone, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch has a clean break in his collarbone, so he could still return this season if everything goes as planned. The 2018 first-round pick has had tough luck since being named to the Pro Bowl in his rookie season, playing just nine games last year due to a neck injury, and now he won't return until Week 7, at the earliest. The Cowboys will place him on IR soon. Joe Thomas is expected to fill in at middle linebacker moving forward.

    Published: Mon, Sep 14 at 10:00am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to land on IR

    Vander Esch fractured his collarbone in Sunday's loss to the Rams and is expected to land on IR but should return later this season, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: The 2020 IR rules would allow Vander Esch to return as early as Week 5 against the Giants if he's healthy enough to suit up by then. Expect the 2018 first-rounder to be officially placed on IR in the coming days, with a clarification on his timetable likely accompanying that move.

    Published: Sun, Sep 13 at 8:32pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out with collarbone injury

    Vander Esch (collarbone) has been ruled out of the remainder of Sunday's game against the Rams, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch has been replaced by Joe Thomas at middle linebacker. Given Vander Esch's history of neck injuries, this is a worrisome sign for the 24-year-old linebacker.

    Published: Sun, Sep 13 at 6:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Hurts collarbone in opener

    Vander Esch sustained a collarbone injury in the first half of Sunday's game against the Rams and his return is questionable, Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch has a history of neck injuries, so it's unfortunate to see him banged up in that region again. The linebacker will hope to get back to this game, but if he doesn't return, his next chance to play would come against Atlanta in Week 2.

    Published: Sun, Sep 13 at 6:03pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Moving to middle linebacker

    Vander Esch expects to move to middle linebacker for the 2020 season, pushing Jaylon Smith to the weak side, Clarence E. Hill Jr. of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports

    Analysis: Vander Esch had no problem racking up tackles from the WILL linebacker spot in his first two pro seasons, totaling 212 in 25 games before a neck injury ended his campaign last fall. He eventually underwent surgery in January to address nerve issues in his neck and spoke about his rehab Thursday. Calling himself fully recovered, he told Todd Archer of ESPN.com, "I'm back better than I was with my strength before I got hurt. I feel amazing. Just excited." Vander Esch will look to keep up the pace…read more

    Published: Thu, Aug 6 at 4:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Announces return to full health

    Vander Esch (neck) said Monday he is "doing wonderful" in his recovery from neck surgery and is "ready to roll," Patrik Walker of CBSSports.com reports.

    Analysis: "I'm ready to go and healthy as ever," Vander Esch said. After having undergone neck surgery mid-January to address an injury that limited him to nine games in 2019, the 24-year-old now appears ready to resume on-field drills whenever the Cowboys ultimately reconvene for offseason activities. After having stormed out of the gates with 140 tackles as a rookie, Vander Esch will no doubt secure another three-down role in Dallas' linebacker corps if he can stay fully healthy to kick off the 2020…read more

    Published: Mon, May 18 at 8:33am by Rotowire.com
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  • Making strides in recovery

    Owner Jerry Jones said Vander Esch (neck) is "100 percent [healthy] in my eyes" at the 2020 NFL Combine on Thursday, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch underwent neck surgery mid-January and appears to be making substantial progress in his recovery, but he has yet to receive full medical clearance and is expected to be limited leading up to training camp. A more substantial update on the 24-year-old's health should arrive as the start of OTAs approaches. He was forced to miss the last six games of the 2019 campaign due to nerve issues.

    Published: Thu, Feb 27 at 4:16pm by Rotowire.com
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  • To have limitations in camp

    According to Stephen Jones, Vander Esch (neck) will "likely have limitations up to training camp," Jane Slater of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch's neck surgery in mid-January reportedly went well, and while he's expected to make a full recovery, the team believes he'll be limited leading up to camp. An update on the linebacker's status should emerge closer to the start of OTAs.

    Published: Mon, Feb 24 at 9:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Full recovery anticipated

    Cowboys executive Stephen Jones said Tuesday that Vander Esch's recent neck surgery "went well," putting the linebacker on track for the start of Dallas' offseason program, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch required the procedure after experiencing nerve issues that forced him to sit out the final six contests of the season. The 2018 first-round pick should be good to go for the start of OTAs in April. He'll be in store for his usual every-down role on defense in 2020 and should rank among the top linebackers in IDP leagues after registering 212 tackles over the first 25 contests of his career (8.4 per game).

    Published: Wed, Jan 22 at 12:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Undergoes neck surgery

    Vander Esch had neck surgery Tuesday and expects to be ready for the offseason program, Todd Archer of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: The surgery is supposed to alleviate the nerve issues that forced him to miss seven total games in 2019, including the final six games of the season. Vander Esch is expected to be healthy by the time OTAs start in April. The 23-year-old played a three-down role on defense this year, racking up 72 tackles and three pass breakups.

    Published: Tue, Jan 14 at 12:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Heading for neck surgery

    Coach Jason Garrett confirmed Monday that Vander Esch will undergo a "minimally invasive" neck procedure and will be placed on injured reserve, Nick Shook of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch missed the last five games due to the neck inflammation, and he'll undergo the surgery after recently being reevaluated. The good news is the 23-year-old is expected to be fully healthy in time for training camp. Vander Esch finished the 2019 campaign with 43 tackles (29 solo), a half-sack and a forced fumble in nine games.

    Published: Mon, Dec 23 at 3:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • MRI on Monday

    Vander Esch will have an MRI on his injured neck Monday, where he'll either be cleared or shut down for the year, Fox's Jay Glazer reported on their Sunday morning pregame show.

    Analysis: Vander Esch's absence has been felt in the previous four games, and now Sean Lee is less than 100 percent. We'll see whether the Cowboys will get Vander Esch back for Week 17.

    Published: Sun, Dec 22 at 9:12am by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out against Eagles

    Vander Esch (neck) won't play in Sunday's game against the Eagles, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch will miss a fifth straight game, and there's no guarantee he'll return this season. Gehlken explained that while the neck has reacted well to rest, the second-year linebacker is still unable to resume football activities. Sean Lee will start at strongside linebacker Sunday, and Joe Thomas (ankle) will fill in on the weakside if he can shake off his injury. However, if Thomas isn't ready in time, either Chris Covington or newly acquired Malcolm Smith will take over.

    Published: Wed, Dec 18 at 10:48am by Rotowire.com
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  • Likely to miss Week 16

    Vander Esch (neck) is expected to miss Sunday's game against the Eagles, Todd Archer of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch is on track to miss his fifth straight game, and the Cowboys' linebacking corps is battered behind him. Joe Thomas suffered a knee injury in this past Sunday's win over the Rams, and Luke Gifford sustained a long-term arm injury in the same contest. That leaves Sean Lee -- who was outstanding against the Rams -- and Chris Covington as the team's outside linebackers. The Cowboys worked out Malcolm Smith and Ray-Ray Armstong on Tuesday to add depth, but both are major downgrades from…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 17 at 11:25am by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out for Sunday

    Vander Esch (neck) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Rams, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch has been unable to play since Week 11. With Sean Lee (pectoral) questionable, Joe Thomas could see additional snaps.

    Published: Fri, Dec 13 at 2:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Trending in wrong direction

    Vander Esch (neck) didn't have a further evaluation as planned Monday, but the Cowboys don't plan to put him on IR yet, Todd Archer of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: The fact that the Cowboys are pondering IR for Vander Esch puts the second-year linebacker on track to miss a fourth straight game, and his absence from Wednesday's practice supports that notion. Coach Jason Garrett does believe Vander Esch's condition is improving, so possibly the team is hoping he'll be healthy for playoffs.

    Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 11:13am by Rotowire.com
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  • Under evaluation

    Coach Jason Garrett said Sunday that Vander Esch is slated to undergo more testing on his neck Monday, Todd Archer of ESPN reports. "We're going to do right by Leighton Vander Esch," Garrett added.

    Analysis: The team already stated Friday that there's no timetable for Vander Esch's return, as tests Monday should give a better indication. The 2018 first-round pick has been shut down since Week 11 with the injury and is "chomping at the bit to play." If Vander Esch continues to miss time, veteran Sean Lee should continue to handle an elevated workload in his absence.

    Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 7:45am by Rotowire.com
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  • No timetable for return

    Coach Jason Garrett said the Cowboys will take Vander Esch's recovery from a neck stinger "day by day, week by week," Rob Phillips of the Cowboys' official site reports. "He's not going to rush back and we're not going to rush him back," Garrett added.

    Analysis: Vander Esch initially suffered the injury Week 7 against the Eagles, and while he attempted to play through the pain Weeks 10 and 11, the team has effectively shut him down in the meantime. Per Garrett, Vander Esch doesn't have a timetable to return but is "chomping at the bit to play." Veteran Sean Lee has been handling an elevated workload in Vander Esch's absence.

    Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 3:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Out Week 14

    Vander Esch (neck) has been ruled out for Thursday's game at Chicago, David Moore of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: The 23-year-old will miss his third straight game due to the neck injury, which should result in Joe Thomas seeing expanded defensive work once again. Given the nature of the injury, Vander Esch preached patience regarding his return, saying, "I want to be able to play for 10 to 12 years, not four [years]."

    Published: Tue, Dec 3 at 12:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't practice Monday

    Vander Esch (neck) will not practice Monday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch hasn't yet practiced this week, and he's missed the last two games due to a lingering neck injury. The second-year linebacker is trending in the wrong direction for Thursday's tilt against the Bears. If he were forced to sit out a third straight contest, Joe Thomas would once again stand to play an expanded role on defense.

    Published: Mon, Dec 2 at 9:10am by Rotowire.com
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  • No practice Sunday

    Vander Esch (neck) was a non-participant for Sunday's practice, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch has missed the last two games while nursing the neck injury and, as evidenced by this news, appears already on track to miss his third straight clash. His availability will become clearer as the week goes on, but if he is forced to miss the game, look for Joe Thomas to continue to see an uptick in snaps.

    Published: Sun, Dec 1 at 9:02am by Rotowire.com
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  • Missing second straight game

    Vander Esch (neck) is ruled out for Thursday's game against the Bills, Rob Phillips of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch didn't practice all week after undergoing an MRI last Thursday, and he's set to miss his third game of the season due to the neck injury. Joe Thomas should see an uptick in snap share again while Sean Lee continues to handle a hefty workload as well.

    Published: Wed, Nov 27 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Out with neck injury

    Vander Esch (neck) won't play in Sunday's game against the Patriots, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Word first surfaced Thursday that Vander Esch recently underwent an MRI to gather more information on his neck issue, which also forced an absence in Week 9. Coach Jason Garrett gave confirmation Friday that Vander Esch would be sidelined again this week, and the linebacker also appears in danger of missing time beyond Sunday. The Cowboys may ask Sean Lee to handle a three-down role alongside Jaylon Smith this weekend in New England.

    Published: Fri, Nov 22 at 10:24am by Rotowire.com
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  • Unlikely to play Sunday

    Vander Esch isn't expected to play Sunday at New England due to a lingering neck injury, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch's neck flared up Thursday, spurring him to undergo an MRI. Previously, he sat out Week 9 as a result of the issue but posted 18 tackles (10 solo) in the Cowboys' ensuing two contests. Having said that, he likely will be on the inactive list Sunday, with potentially more absences on tap. According to Todd Archer of ESPN.com, Vander Esch will undergo an evaluation in a couple weeks to see if inflammation has reduced. In the meantime, Sean Lee will cover for Vander Esch at weakside…read more

    Published: Thu, Nov 21 at 4:46pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Big effort in return

    Vander Esch recorded 13 tackles (five solo) in Sunday's loss to the Vikings.

    Analysis: After missing last week's game with a neck injury, Vander Esch looked in top form as he tied Jaylon Smith for the team lead in tackles while trying to contain Dalvin Cook. Vander Esch has delivered double-digit tackles four times in eight games, and even with the Week 9 absence, he's on pace for 126 tackles this season.

    Published: Tue, Nov 12 at 12:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Good to go Sunday

    Vander Esch (neck) has no injury designation for Sunday's game against the Vikings, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch missed last week's win over the Giants and was a limited practice participant all week, but he's apparently ready to play Week 10. The Cowboys' linebacking corps is now fully healthy heading into Sunday's contest.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 12:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to play Week 10

    Vander Esch (neck) is expected to start Sunday's contest against the Vikings, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch missed Monday's win over the Giants due to neck discomfort related to a lingering stinger, but he appears to have made enough progress throughout practice this week to retake the field. The second-year pro's availability will be a huge boost to Dallas' linebacker corps with a matchup against the Vikings' potent rushing attack on deck Sunday night.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 9:45am by Rotowire.com
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  • Another limited practice

    Vander Esch (neck) was limited in Thursday's practice, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch has now logged two consecutive limited sessions. The second-year pro missed Monday's win over the Giants due a lingering stinger, and he hasn't yet managed to fully shake the injury. He'll have one more opportunity to upgrade his level of participation in practice ahead of Week 10's tilt against the Vikings.

    Published: Thu, Nov 7 at 12:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited Wednesday

    Vander Esch (neck) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, David Helman of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch missed the first game of his career Week 9 due to a lingering stinger that caused him neck discomfort. The second-year linebacker will have two more opportunities to shake the issue ahead of Sunday's tilt against the Vikings. In the event Vander Esch was forced to miss any more time, Sean Lee (pectoral) would draw another start if healthy.

    Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 3:55pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Missing first career game

    Vander Esch (neck) is inactive for Monday's road contest against the Giants, David Helman of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: According to Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News, Vander Esch is tending to lingering discomfort in his neck due to a stinger suffered Week 7 against the Eagles. As a result, the Cowboys are exercising caution with the second-year linebacker. Look for Sean Lee and possibly Joe Thomas to take on bigger workloads alongside middle linebacker Jaylon Smith.

    Published: Mon, Nov 4 at 3:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Trending in wrong direction

    Vander Esch (neck) is not expected to play in Monday's game against the Giants, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch suffered the neck injury in the Oct. 20 win over the Eagles, and he hasn't played since. Even though the veteran practiced on a limited basis throughout the week, he didn't take a snap. If Vander Esch is officially out for Monday's game, Joe Thomas is expected to draw the start at weakside linebacker.

    Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 7:49am by Rotowire.com
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  • Questionable for Monday

    Vander Esch (neck) is considered questionable for Monday's game against the Giants, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch was a limited practice participant all week and will be a game-day decision, per Gehlken. The 23-year-old played only 22 snaps in Week 7 before suffering the injury, but the bye last week gives him a chance to not miss any games.

    Published: Sat, Nov 2 at 3:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Still limited Friday

    Vander Esch (neck) was a limited practice participant Friday, David Helman of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: Vander Esch indicated he expected to return to practice this week and play Monday against the Giants, and he's now been a limited participant Thursday and Friday. The 23-year-old may be able to avoid an injury designation if he can progress to full participation Saturday.

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 1:32pm by Rotowire.com
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