former Dallas Cowboys star Leighton Vander Esch announced his retirement Monday due to injury.
Vander Esch, 28, suffered a season-ending neck injury during the team’s Week 5 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. This is the third time in six seasons that he has played in 10 or fewer games.
The Cowboys released him last week.
In his retirement message posted on the Cowboys’ team website, he thanked his wife, coaches, fans, agent and his alma mater, Boise State University.
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FILE – Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch walks on the field before an NFL football game against the New York Jets on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde, File)
“During my six years as a Cowboys player, I have always pursued success and winning the game of football while preparing and training with the highest standards of competitiveness, passion and perseverance,” he said in part. He spoke clearly. “It was an honor to represent my family, my teammates, and the people of Dallas.
“I recognize that I can no longer live up to the unwavering standards of excellence required of professional football. I say this with a heavy heart. I am retiring from the NFL for medical reasons. I love the game of football so much, but my body just doesn’t cooperate anymore.
“I’ve cherished every moment of my NFL career, and as long as I’ve played, I’ve been very happy to be in a game. Even though things may look a little different for me this year, , whose only focus is being a great husband and father of my loving family. ”
Leighton Vander Esch #55 of the Dallas Cowboys watches during the third quarter of a game against the New England Patriots at AT&T Stadium on October 1, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
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The Cowboys selected Vander Esch with the 19th overall pick in the 2018 draft. He quickly became an integral part of the defense and was selected to the Pro Bowl in his rookie season.
The injuries started in my second year. He suffered a nerve problem in his neck, forcing him to miss the final weeks of the season. His 2020 season was also derailed by another nerve issue in his neck. He managed to return midway through the season.
Vander Esch played in every game in 2021, recording 77 tackles, one sack, and one interception. But in 2022, things are more or less the same. He lost several games with a stab wound to his neck. He could play for Dallas in the playoffs, but the Cowboys didn’t get very far.
In 2023, Vander Esch had 30 tackles and a fumble recovery for a touchdown. He appeared in only 5 games.
“I thank God every day for everything He has given me, my family, my friends, my teammates, and being on this stage to positively impact the lives of others. ” he concluded. “Today, I want to thank God for the countless blessings He has continued to bestow upon my family and me. You have given me a healthy baby girl and a wife to follow in your footsteps. I gave it to you.
FILE – Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, 55, is scheduled to play defense during an NFL football game against the New York Jets on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Matt Patterson, File)
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“I don’t think I would have made it this far if I didn’t trust in your unwavering love and guidance. You blessed me with the ability to become a Dallas Cowboy and gave me a six-year professional football career. In this next chapter, I hope that through me you will continue to impact people’s lives and be a light in this world.”
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