Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch announced his retirement from the NFL on Monday. The former first-round choice was one of the league’s best young linebackers but was hampered by neck troubles.
The Cowboys terminated the 28-year-old Vander Esch last week after a failed physical, marking the end of his time with Dallas and in the NFL. The former Boise State great had a successful six-year career with the Cowboys, including two seasons with 90-plus tackles and rookie Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro selections.
Vander Esch appeared in only five games this season due to an injury. The experienced defender recorded 30 total tackles, a fumble recovery, and a defensive touchdown.
The Dallas Cowboys paid tribute to the veteran linebacker with a video showing the moment he received the call from Jerry Jones on draft day, as well as the numerous plays he made on the field. He could drop into coverage and was not afraid to face the running back in the hole.
Cowboys Share Touching Tribute to Vander Esch
You are elite, Wolf Hunter šŗ pic.twitter.com/Q9LdIHe2HH
— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) March 18, 2024
Even though he only spent six seasons with the Cowboys, it’s apparent that the “Wolf Hunter” left an impression on the franchise and will be remembered as one of the best linebackers of his period.
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