Leighton Vander Esch is a name that resonates within the NFL world, especially among fans of the Dallas Cowboys, the team he has represented since being drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. As a linebacker for one of the most storied franchises in football, Vander Esch has become an integral part of the Cowboys’ defense.
Known for his fierce play, incredible instincts, and impressive physicality, Leighton has quickly earned a reputation as one of the league’s top linebackers. In this article, we will dive deep into Vander Esch’s early life, college career, NFL journey, playing style, and future in the league.
Early Life and Background
Leighton Vander Esch was born on February 8, 1996, in Riggins, Idaho, a small town with a population of just over 400 people. Growing up in rural Idaho, Vander Esch developed a love for sports early on, particularly football. His high school, Salmon River High School, was a far cry from the high-powered programs found in larger cities, but it was here that he first started to showcase his potential as an athlete.
Playing for the Salmon River Savages, Vander Esch excelled as a linebacker, earning All-State honors in his senior year. His performances on the football field caught the attention of several college recruiters, but it was his raw athleticism and the opportunity to further develop his skills that led him to a football scholarship at Boise State University, a school known for its strong football program and history of producing NFL talent.
College Career at Boise State University
Vander Esch’s path to stardom in college football wasn’t immediate. He spent his first year at Boise State learning the ropes of college football and developing his skills under the guidance of coaches at one of the premier football programs in the country. It was during this time that Vander Esch’s physicality, strength, and dedication to the game began to shine. His impressive size (standing at 6’4″ and weighing 256 pounds) and natural athleticism made him a standout on the field, but it was his work ethic and football IQ that set him apart.
In his sophomore year (2016), Vander Esch became a regular part of the Boise State defense. He made significant strides and showcased his ability to read offenses, diagnose plays, and make key tackles. In 2017, his junior year, Vander Esch truly began to make his name known on the national stage.
Breakout Junior Year (2017)
Vander Esch’s breakout year came in 2017, his junior season, when he led the Boise State Broncos defense in tackles and demonstrated the skills that would eventually make him an NFL prospect. He played in 12 games and posted 141 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 4 interceptions, showing his versatility and ability to make plays all over the field.
His standout performance earned him numerous accolades, including being named First-Team All-Mountain West and a Finalist for the Butkus Award (given to the nation’s top linebacker). His combination of tackling ability, intelligence, and leadership on the field made him one of the top linebacker prospects heading into the 2018 NFL Draft.
Leighton Vander Esch’s NFL Journey
2018 NFL Draft and Selection by the Dallas Cowboys Leighton Vander Esch’s performance at Boise State, particularly his breakout 2017 season, put him on the radar of many NFL teams. With his impressive athletic profile and ability to impact the game in a variety of ways, he was considered one of the top linebacker prospects in the draft class.
On April 26, 2018, Leighton Vander Esch was selected by the Dallas Cowboys with the 19th overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft. The Cowboys were in need of a dynamic linebacker to bolster their defense, and Vander Esch, with his ability to cover ground, make open-field tackles, and excel in pass coverage, was seen as a perfect fit for their scheme.
Rookie Year: A Stellar Debut
Vander Esch made an immediate impact in his rookie season with the Dallas Cowboys in 2018. Playing in all 16 games, he quickly cemented his status as a defensive leader for the team. Vander Esch’s rookie year saw him accumulate 140 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 7 passes defended. He played an instrumental role in the Cowboys’ defensive success and was widely recognized for his playmaking ability.
His performance was so impressive that he was named to the Pro Bowl and was a finalist for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Vander Esch’s combination of size, speed, and instincts allowed him to excel both as a tackler and in pass coverage, helping the Cowboys to secure a spot in the NFL playoffs. His strong showing in his first year was a sign of the bright future ahead.
2019-2020: Maintaining High Standards
In 2019, Vander Esch continued his development as one of the top linebackers in the NFL. He recorded 142 total tackles, showing his consistency in stopping the run and defending the pass. His ability to contribute in various aspects of the game whether it was making tackles for loss, covering tight ends, or intercepting passes was crucial to the Cowboys‘ defense. However, Vander Esch’s 2019 season was marred by injuries, as he missed several games due to a neck injury that limited his playing time. Despite this, he still managed to produce at a high level when on the field.
2020: Injury Troubles and Comeback
The 2020 season was a challenging year for Vander Esch. He faced injury setbacks, including a broken collarbone that kept him sidelined for part of the season. Despite these challenges, he remained a crucial part of the Cowboys’ defense when he was able to play. While his numbers didn’t match his previous years, Vander Esch still showed flashes of his potential and leadership. Though the Cowboys had a disappointing season as a team, Vander Esch’s resilience and ability to come back from injury helped solidify his reputation as a player with a lot of heart and determination. He finished the season with 115 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 interception.
Physical Attributes and Athleticism
Leighton Vander Esch’s most notable physical trait is his size and athleticism. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 256 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for an NFL linebacker. His combination of strength, speed, and agility allows him to excel at a variety of tasks, from stopping the run to covering the pass.
His ability to chase down ball carriers, his physicality in tackling, and his quickness to close on the quarterback in pass-rushing situations are all characteristics that make him a well-rounded player. Vander Esch’s unique blend of athleticism and size allows him to excel both as a traditional linebacker and in coverage, a role that is becoming increasingly important in the modern NFL.
Tackling and Run Defense
Vander Esch’s ability to make open-field tackles and bring down ball carriers is one of his key strengths. His size and physicality make him an effective tackler, and his instincts allow him to diagnose plays quickly and get in position to make the stop. Vander Esch is particularly effective in run defense, where his ability to shed blockers and wrap up ball carriers allows him to play an integral role in stopping the run game.
Coverage Ability and Pass Defending
One of the areas where Vander Esch truly stands out is in pass coverage. He has the speed and agility to cover tight ends, running backs, and even some wide receivers, making him an asset in pass defense. His ability to track the ball and his awareness in zone coverage allow him to make plays in the passing game. Vander Esch is also a capable pass rusher, using his size and quickness to get pressure on quarterbacks when needed.
Injury Concerns and Career Longevity
While Vander Esch has shown incredible potential, his career thus far has been hindered by injuries. The Cowboys’ success in the coming seasons will depend on Vander Esch’s ability to stay healthy and continue his development. If he can stay on the field, his talent and leadership could be the cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense for years to come.
Future with the Dallas Cowboys
As of now, Leighton Vander Esch remains an integral part of the Cowboys’ defense. With a strong work ethic and a commitment to his craft, he has the opportunity to continue to grow into one of the league’s top linebackers. His future in Dallas will depend on his ability to stay healthy, improve his skills, and help anchor a defense that has undergone changes in recent years.
Given his talent and the trajectory of his career, it is highly likely that Vander Esch will continue to be a key player for the Cowboys, and could eventually receive recognition as one of the premier linebackers in the league.
FAQs
What is Leighton Vander Esch’s NFL Career like?
Leighton Vander Esch has had a solid career with the Dallas Cowboys. In his rookie season (2018), he made an immediate impact, recording 140 tackles and earning a Pro Bowl selection. His physicality and coverage skills stood out, and he quickly established himself as one of the top young linebackers in the league. However, Vander Esch has faced some injury issues, particularly with his neck, which have limited his playing time in certain seasons.
What injuries has Leighton Vander Esch had in his career?
Leighton Vander Esch has had several injury concerns throughout his career. Notably, he suffered a neck injury in the 2019 season, which caused him to miss significant time. He underwent surgery and was placed on injured reserve. While he has since returned to the field, his injury history has been a point of concern for some.
What is Leighton Vander Esch’s playing style?
Leighton Vander Esch is known for his physicality, high football IQ, and ability to make tackles in both run defense and pass coverage. He excels in sideline-to-sideline movement, covering ground quickly, and can track down ball carriers with ease. Vander Esch is also highly regarded for his leadership on the field, often seen as a vocal presence in the Cowboys’ defense.
What is Leighton Vander Esch’s net worth?
As of 2025, Leighton Vander Esch’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $5 to $10 million. His wealth comes from his NFL contracts, endorsements, and other business ventures. His first contract with the Cowboys was a four-year deal worth around $11.8 million, with a signing bonus of $6.5 million. Since then, his salary has increased with each contract renewal.
Does Leighton Vander Esch have any endorsement deals?
Yes, Leighton Vander Esch has had various endorsement deals throughout his career, typically with sportswear brands, fitness products, and local businesses. While he is not as high-profile as some other NFL players in terms of endorsements, his steady presence with the Dallas Cowboys and popularity as a defensive star has helped him secure deals.
In Summary
Leighton Vander Esch’s journey from a small-town football player in Idaho to a first-round pick in the NFL Draft is a testament to his work ethic, determination, and natural talent. His early years in the NFL have shown that he has the potential to be one of the top linebackers in the game, and despite injury setbacks, he has proven that he is capable of bouncing back and performing at a high level.
Vander Esch’s combination of size, speed, and football IQ make him a valuable asset to the Dallas Cowboys, and his future in the NFL looks bright. As long as he can stay healthy and continue to develop, the sky’s the limit for Leighton Vander Esch as he looks to establish himself as one of the premier linebackers in the league. The best is yet to come for this rising star.
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