Cowboys’ Linebacker Corps Takes a Hit with Vander Esch on Injured Reserve
Cowboys’ Linebacker Corps Takes a Hit with Vander Esch on Injured Reserve
The Dallas Cowboys have confirmed that linebacker Leighton Vander Esch has been placed on injured reserve due to a worrying neck injury. Vander Esch, who has had a history of neck issues, will be obliged to sit out the upcoming four games at the very least. This spells trouble for the Cowboys' defense, which has already been grappling with depth concerns in the linebacker position.
According to the team's timeline, the earliest Vander Esch could potentially return to the field is for the game against the Carolina Panthers on November 19, or he may have to wait until the November 30 clash against the Seattle Seahawks. Fans and teammates alike will remember that the linebacker underwent neck surgery back in 2019 and was sidelined for the last three matches of the previous season because of similar complaints.
How Vander Esch's Latest Injury Occurred
The latest incident occurred during a game when Vander Esch was unfortunately pushed into the leg of a teammate. Since then, the team has been assessing its in-house resources in anticipation of the linebacker's absence.
Cowboys Scramble for Depth
In light of Vander Esch's injury, the Cowboys have had to contend with other setbacks within the linebacker unit. Rookie DeMarvion Overshown suffered a torn ACL during the preseason, significantly denting the depth in the crucial defensive area. Meanwhile, the coaching staff made the decision to convert Markquese Bell from safety to linebacker – underscoring the team's challenges in filling the position.
Adding to the concerns, linebacker Damone Clark has been dealing with a shoulder problem that could inhibit his performance. To shore up their options, the Cowboys have promoted Malik Jefferson from the practice squad and brought in Mikel Jones, primarily for special teams use. However, the latter's signing indicates the team's ongoing quest to stabilize their linebacker roster.
Coaching Staff Contemplating Possible Additions
The Cowboys' coaching team, led by head coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, are currently examining the available options. Their contemplation regarding the addition of an experienced linebacker is a move aimed at bolstering the team's on-field leadership and expertise.
McCarthy stated, "In our personnel meeting, we touched on some potential opportunities. But we just want to make sure we have all the information before we head down that road." This cautious approach suggests that the Cowboys are not in a rush to make a knee-jerk decision but are instead weighing their options carefully.
Quinn added to the conversation, illustrating his readiness for such unpredictable scenarios, "We also know there's going to be parts that challenge us through the year. That's not just on our team, that's on every team. So that's why you better have a big, deep crew that can roll and be able to make adjustments." He later remarked on the situation at hand, "That's part of the balance we'll have to face and work through it."
Shifting Strategies and Other Injuries
Faced with mounting challenges, Dan Quinn may have to implement strategic shifts to compensate for the absence of key players. There is speculation that this could include moving the versatile Micah Parsons back to the linebacker spot, an adjustment that would see the Cowboys utilize Parsons' unique skill set to cover the gap left by Vander Esch and others.
In what seems like an adverse trend for the Cowboys' roster, C.J. Goodwin has also been recorded on injured reserve for the remainder of the season with a torn left pectoral muscle. Additionally, star cornerback Trevon Diggs's season has been abruptly ended due to a torn ACL.
Moreover, the Cowboys' special teams unit is monitoring the progress of KaVontae Turpin, who is currently nursing an ankle injury. In a preparatory move to ensure special teams effectiveness, Rico Dowdle and Deuce Vaughn have been eyed as potential replacements for Turpin in his role as a returner should his injury sideline him.
Conclusion
As the Cowboys navigate through an injury-riddled season, the coaching staff's ability to adapt and players' versatility are being tested to their limits. With strategic decisions to be made, it seems the Cowboys' depth chart will continue to witness changes and shifts as they aim to keep their defensive integrity intact amidst a spate of injuries.
