3 Players who played their last game for the Dallas Cowboys

Jan 16, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) reacts with Dallas Cowboys tight end Dalton Schultz (86) after a touchdown in the first half during the wild card game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports /

3 of 4

ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 04: Leighton Vander Esch #55 of the Dallas Cowboys gets set against the Indianapolis Coltsdefends against the Indianapolis Colts at AT&T Stadium on December 4, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) /

2. Leighton Vander Esch, LB

Leighton Vander Esch has been a key player for the Dallas Cowboys’ defense in recent years, making a name for himself as one of the most talented and impactful linebackers in the league. However, despite his impressive performances on the field, the Cowboys may not be able to keep him on the team due to financial constraints.

One of the biggest reasons the Cowboys may not be able to retain Vander Esch is the team’s current salary cap situation. With several key players set to become free agents in the coming offseason, the Cowboys will likely have to make some difficult decisions about who to keep and who to let go. In addition, the team will also likely have to use the franchise tag on running back Tony Pollard, which will eat up a significant amount of cap space.

They don’t make linebackers like Vander Esch anymore. He’s 6’4″ and 245 pounds with excellent length and shedding ability. Linebacker-needy teams around the league will likely be willing to overpay for a player with his potential and talent. Vander Esch’s leadership and his success on the field will make him one of the most sought-after free agents in the league.

Given the Cowboys’ young talent, they will want to invest in and extend their contracts. Micah Parsons is coming up soon. With Vander Esch reaching the end of his contract and being a free agent, it is likely that the Cowboys will have to choose between keeping him or investing in the youth of the team. Sorry, but he’s gone.

Home/Dallas Cowboys