Dallas Cowboys LB Leighton Vander Esch likely headed to IR, career in question as well

The Dallas Cowboys are approaching linebacker Leighton Vander Esch’s neck injury with the abundance of caution.

Coach Mike McCarthy said Vander Esch is likely headed for injured reserve.

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.

Jefferson has been called up from the practice squad in each of the past two weeks. He will likely be signed for the season.

The Cowboys will look to add a veteran free agent to add depth to the position.

And edge rusher Micah Parsons could get more looks back at off-the-ball linebacker.

He can run sideline to sideline and could blitz the middle but it would take him away from doing what he does best as an edge rusher.

Special teams ace C.J. Goodwin is also headed to injured reserve with a torn pectoral muscle.

The Cowboys got some good news as kick returner KaVontae Turpin, who suffered a high sprain against the 49ers, has a chance to play against the Los Angeles Rams next Monday.