The Dallas Cowboys are in dire straits following their devastating loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Not only did they suffer a crushing defeat, but they also witnessed several key players succumbing to significant injuries during the game, particularly their starting linebacker, Leighton Vander Esch. Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy revealed that Vander Esch is likely headed for the injured reserve list, but the defender’s status could be even more serious than initially thought.
Injured Reserve and Career-Threatening Concerns
In the world of NFL, players placed on the injured reserve list must miss a minimum of four games, in accordance with the league’s rules. However, a cloud of concern hovers over Leighton Vander Esch’s recent neck injury, as reported by Clarence Hill from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. The Cowboys fear that this injury may jeopardize Vander Esch’s career.
According to Hill’s report on October 9, 2023, “Coach Mike McCarthy said Vander Esch is likely headed for injured reserve after Vander Esch was injured in Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers. How long he will be out is still unknown, but there is a natural fear that it could be career-threatening, considering Vander Esch’s history of neck injuries dating back to college, including a diagnosis of spinal stenosis. The Cowboys will turn to former Texas linebacker Malik Jefferson to help fill the void at linebacker alongside Damone Clark.”
Vander Esch’s Career and Recent Performance
Leighton Vander Esch has battled injuries throughout his career, but he had been relatively fortunate in recent years. In 2022, the veteran linebacker missed only three games after participating in all 17 matchups in 2021. In the first five games of the current season, Vander Esch recorded 30 tackles and a fumble recovery, showcasing his vital contribution to the team.
The Cowboys invested in Vander Esch over the offseason, signing him to a two-year, $8 million contract that extends through the 2024 season. In 2023, he carries a $3.1 million cap hit, a figure that will increase to $4.7 million in 2024.
The Challenges Ahead for the Dallas Cowboys
The challenge for the Dallas Cowboys moving forward is significant. The linebacker position was already thinly staffed, and Vander Esch’s absence further exacerbates this issue. The team may need to explore the available veteran free agents to address this position, with Anthony Barr among the players currently without a roster spot. Fans can anticipate an expanded role for Malik Jefferson as the Cowboys regroup and adjust their defensive strategy.
Despite the setbacks, the Cowboys’ defense has been a source of strength this season, yet it struggled to contain the 49ers’ offense. On the offensive front, the Cowboys have grappled with inconsistency, particularly in the red zone, pre-snap penalties, and turnovers. Dak Prescott, the team’s star quarterback, expressed his deep disappointment, labeling the loss to the 49ers as “the most humbling game” he has ever been a part of during his career.
In his own words during an October 9 press conference, Prescott reflected, “Yeah, I guess that’s a good word, [demoralizing] in a sense. Didn’t see it coming, as you said, put everything into this and got punched in the mouth. Called a couple of weeks ago humbling against Arizona, but this may be the most humbling game I’ve ever been a part of. Felt good about the preparation. Felt good about everything, honestly, coming into this game, [the] matchups and they beat us in every aspect.”
The Dallas Cowboys now face the challenging task of regrouping and overcoming these obstacles as they aim to get their season back on track.
Seeking Solutions: Rashaan Evans to the Practice Squad
To address the impending vacancy created by Leighton Vander Esch’s move to the injured reserve list due to his neck injury, the Dallas Cowboys are expected to sign linebacker Rashaan Evans to the practice squad after a recent workout. Evans, a first-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in 2018, spent the previous season with the Atlanta Falcons, where he was credited with 159 tackles. He had signed with the Philadelphia Eagles during the offseason and was recently released from their practice squad.
Suggested Articles from NFL Wisdom Imbibe:
- Randy Gregory Traded to the San Francisco 49ers
- Commanders Vs. Bears: Week-5 Game Preview, Time, and How to Watch.
- Ravens Triumph Over Browns 28-3 Amidst QB Watson’s Injury Mystery
- The Seattle Seahawks’ Dominant Defense Shines in Victory Over New York Giants
- Why do NFL player wear long socks?
- Colts’ Jonathan Taylor Practice Window Opens Amid Trade Speculation
More from NFL Wisdom Imbibe:
