2018 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

19. Leighton Vander Esch, ILB, Dallas Cowboys

2018 Stats: 140 total tackles, 2 INTs, 7 passes defended

I remember that there were serious concerns about this selection when the Dallas Cowboys made it back in April. The kid had injury issues and while he looked great on tape at Boise State, it wasn’t clear if he was ready to be an impact player at the next level.

Well, anyone who felt that way is feeling pretty silly right now. As it turns out, Leighton Vander Esch was arguably the second-best rookie linebacker of the 2018 draft class — behind only Indianapolis Colts surprise star Darius Leonard. All season long, the former college sensation made his case as quite the NFL sensation as well.

Every game, you could see Vander Esch flying all over the field. Whether he was shutting down the run or making a big play in coverage, his impeccable instincts were routinely on display. Teamed with Jaylen Smith, the former top linebacker prospect helped give the Cowboys one of the best young inside linebacker duos in the NFL.

The ceiling appears very high for Vander Esch, who’s already shown more upside in his first year than many foresaw. Even if he were to never get any bit better than he is now, the Cowboys would still be very happy with their 2018 first-round pick.

Grade: A+