Why did Leighton Vander Esch retire? The Cowboys’ linebacker says goodbye to the NFL

“I love the Game of Football so much, and my body won’t cooperate any longer.” Those were some of the parting words from Leighton Vander Esch as he announced he’d be hanging up his Dallas Cowboys cleats. But at the age of just 26, some fans are asking why his career should end so soon. For those that have been following his recent progress, though, the news likely comes as little surprise.

Leighton Vander Esch pens farewell letter

After a six-year tenure in the NFL, linebacker Vander Esch made the retirement announcement on Monday, and cited persistent health concerns, particularly relating to his neck, as the primary reason behind his decision to step away from the game.

In a statement released via the Dallas Cowboys website, Vander Esch expressed his deep affection for football but lamented the fact that his body could no longer keep up with the demands of the sport. Here is his letter:

“Today is a difficult day for me, but it is also a day of reflection and gratitude. Playing for the Jones Family, Coach Garrett, McCarthy, Marinelli, Richard, DQ, Bloom, George, AD, and Scotty have been the best days of my life. My dream of playing for the Dallas Cowboys came to reality on April 26, 2018. That night will forever be a night I’ll never forget. During my six years as a Cowboys player, I’ve always pursued success and winning football games, while preparing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance. It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates and the people of Dallas.

“I realize that I am no longer able to adhere to the unwavering standard of excellence that professional Football demands. I say this with a heavy heart: I am medically retiring from the NFL. I love the Game of Football so much, but my body won’t cooperate any longer. I cherished every moment of my NFL career, and it has been such a blessing to play the Game for as long as I have played. This year, things may look a little different for me, but the sole focus is being a great husband and father for my loving family.

“Reflecting on my six years in the NFL, and all that was required to reach my current situation, reminded me of the many people I owe humble, sincere gratitude to.

“No one has felt the daily grind more than my loving and extremely supportive wife, Madalynn. Six years ago, we were just two young individuals taking on a whole new world here in Dallas. We had so much to learn in such little time, and we took it day by day, soaking up every moment together. She has been with me throughout my entire career and was completely dedicated to helping me become my absolute best, on and off the field. I know for a fact I couldn’t have been on this journey in the NFL without her. Madalynn, you have made this transition into being the mother of our little girl look so easy. For you, I am forever grateful and blessed. If there’s one thing that is for sure, player wives don’t get near enough credit.

“My mom and dad provided me with the perfect combination of love and discipline and taught me what hard work and persistence truly are. From an early age you two always told me, if I do something do it to my fullest ability. Every time I put on a uniform, I have always strived to stick to the principles they stand for, and I can only hope that I haven’t let them down.

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“My three sisters have greatly helped me in their own ways. All of them have been extremely influential in all facets of my life and having them as siblings helped transform me into the person I am today. Growing up and going to all of your games, you three set the basis for how to compete. You’re all fierce in your own ways, and that has brought a lot into the passion and emotion I have played with. Still to this day some of my favorite memories are watching you guys play basketball, volleyball and run track.

“I would like to thank Boise State University for taking on a kid from Riggins, Idaho as a walk-on and letting me grow into the player that became a 1st round pick. Coach Harsin, I am thankful for the opportunity you gave me to play at my dream college. Growing up and going to the Boise State games as a kid, it was always my dream to wear that blue and orange uniform. Coach Avalos, I owe you for life and appreciate all the work you put into me. You truly believed in me and never let me settle for anything less than greatness. Still to this day you are a father figure in my life. There are countless memories on and off the field that I reminisce on.

“My agent, Ron, thank you for always having my back. You have worked countless hours making sure we have been in the best position possible. You have always taken into consideration my family’s preferences first. The ins and outs of the draft process, you handled like an absolute pro. You have also taken care of us in Dallas like we are family. Anything we need, you are always there to help no matter how busy or tied up you may be in the moment. Thank you for helping make my dream of playing in the NFL and for Dallas come true.

“Football is truly the ultimate team sport, and being a part of an NFL organization makes that even more evident. So many people devote their time to helping the players, and I would like to thank everyone in the Dallas Cowboys organization, former and current, for all that you have done for me over the last six years. The athletic trainers, Jim, Britt, Greg, Hanson, you guys constantly worked your tails off to ensure I was ready to play every week. The men in the equipment room, Mike, Bucky, Dylan, Blake, thank you so much for making sure I had the right gear every day to perform the way we do. Our player security, Cable and Bryan, you two go above and beyond to make sure all of us are taken care of. Thank you! Our strength staff, Coach H, Kendall, Ced. You three have really went above and beyond for me the last few years, I love you guys like brothers. Coach Markus, we miss you every day, and not a day goes by that I stepped in the weight room and didn’t think about you.

“To my exceptional teammates, former and current, I owe you everything. I look forward to addressing you formally and privately later, but please know that I love and respect all of you, and not having the opportunity to be around you is what will hurt most of all. Forming friendships and unbreakable bonds of trust on the field is what makes football so special and so important to me. When reminiscing on my NFL career, I will think about all the games won and lost, plays made or missed. I know I will think about you and the time we shared together, the trust and love we had for each other and the unwavering willingness we had to help each other succeed. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

“The Dallas community and the devoted fans of the Cowboys are simply amazing. Six years ago, upon arriving in Dallas, I received the warmest welcome possible, and Dallas has been my home ever since. The dedication and passion the fans display has been inspiring. During a Sunday afternoon in the fall, there is no doubt the collective roar of our enthusiastic fans provides strength for the players. Countless times I was approached by fans and loyal season ticket holders who gave me nothing but words of encouragement and support. I cannot thank you enough.

“I thank God every day for all that He has given me: my family, my friends, my teammates, and being on this stage to impact people’s lives in a positive way. Today, I would like to thank God for the countless blessings he continues to shower over my family and me. You have given me a new healthy baby girl and a wife that follows you. Without trusting in your unwavering love and guidance, I know I wouldn’t have made it this far. You have blessed me with the ability to become a Dallas Cowboy and for allowing me the privilege of a 6-year professional football career. I strive to let you work through me in this next chapter to continue to impact people’s lives and to be a light in this world.”

Vander Esch’s career in numbers and injuries

The linebacker’s journey in the NFL has been riddled with challenges stemming from neck issues that have haunted him since his college days. His most recent setback occurred in November 2023, resulting in a significant neck injury that ultimately forced him to reconsider his future in the league. Drafted by the Cowboys in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Vander Esch quickly made his mark. His rookie season saw him earn second-team All-Pro honours and a Pro Bowl selection, showcasing his talent with impressive statistics including 140 combined tackles and two interceptions.

However, Vander Esch’s career trajectory was marred by recurring injuries, including neck problems and a broken collarbone, both necessitating surgical intervention. Despite setbacks, he demonstrated resilience, bouncing back with a strong performance in the 2021 season, tallying 77 combined tackles and one interception across 17 games.

The linebacker’s determination to persevere was evident in his limited appearances during the 2022 season, which marked one of his best years since his rookie campaign. Vander Esch’s commitment to the game led him to sign a two-year contract extension with the Cowboys. Yet, his aspirations were abruptly halted by the recurrence of neck issues, casting doubt on his future in the league. Recent reports indicated that his ongoing neck problems prompted discussions between his agent and the Cowboys’ management, culminating in his release on 15 March with a failed physical designation.

Vander Esch leaves behind a legacy marked by his contributions to the Cowboys’ defense, accumulating 496 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and three interceptions throughout his career. Notably, his final touchdown, scored on October 1, 2023, against the New England Patriots, serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring impact on the field.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones sent out a statement sharing his feelings about Leighton.

“Seldom do you come across a player like Leighton, who grew up playing eight-man football only to first play the 11-man game at the major collegiate level and excel. His passion and love for the game was contagious, and from the moment he arrived, he has been a difference maker. His grit, toughness, motivation, determination and football IQ will be sorely missed. Leighton also embodied the strong character and personal qualities that make him much more than an accomplished player.

“He was a leader and the kind of teammate that impacted those around him in the best ways. Leighton’s playing career may have come to an end, but his future is very bright. On behalf of the entire Dallas Cowboys organization, we’re proud that he wore the star on his helmet, we thank him and we wish all the best to Leighton, his wife, Madalynn, and their young daughter.”