Dallas Cowboys LB Leighton Vander Esch suffered a scary neck injury in the second half of Sunday night’s demoralizing loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Here’s what we know at this point.
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Leighton Vander Esch Injury Update
Vander Esch sustained a neck injury during the third quarter of Sunday night’s game against the 49ers. Vander Esch was blocked by All-Pro offensive tackle Trent Williams and ran head-first into teammate Micah Parsons.
Cowboys LB Leighton Vander Esch is down on the field, and the medical staff appears to be evaluating his neck area. Very scary situation with his history. Teammates kneeling in concern.
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) October 9, 2023
Anytime a player is injured with a head or neck injury following a collision with the top of the head or the crown of the helmet, it is a cause for concern. The injury is especially concerning, given Vander Esch’s history with injuries in the area.
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Vander Esch plays with a neck brace to provide support. The Cowboys LB has faced several neck injuries throughout his playing career. Vander Esch was diagnosed with spinal stenosis and underwent surgery for the condition.
@ProFootballDoc believes he would have to "dodge a bullet" in MRI to return this season.https://t.co/PEEAkz4rCj
— Sports Injury Central (@SICscore) October 9, 2023
We do not have any official word from the Cowboys’ organization or medical team, but some who cover the NFL speculate the latest injury could cause the Cowboys LB to miss some time.