Dominates Cowboys Defense With 469 Tackles Legend Beats Injury, Aims for Return to Cowboys

Dallas, TX – June 19, 2025 – Cowboys fans are buzzing with excitement as legendary linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, the “Wolf Hunter,” announces he’s fully recovered from a career-threatening neck injury. The 2018 first-round pick has inked a one-year deal to return for what he calls his “final ride” with Dallas, aiming to chase a Super Bowl in 2025.

Vander Esch, 28, faced his toughest challenge after a neck injury sidelined him in Week 5 of 2023 against the 49ers. Following a grueling year of rehab under team doctor Dr. Dan Cooper, he’s been cleared to play. “I had offers, but Dallas is home,” Vander Esch told ESPN. “I’m here to finish what I started—one last shot at a ring.”

The 6-foot-4 linebacker, a 2018 Pro Bowler with 469 tackles, started 65 of 71 games, anchoring Dallas to three NFC East titles. His return bolsters a defense ranked fifth against the run (112.3 yards/game) in 2024. Head coach Mike McCarthy called it a “game-changer,” with Vander Esch set to lead alongside Eric Kendricks and rookie Marist Liufau in Matt Eberflus’ 3-4 scheme.

With $20 million in cap space (per Spotrac), Dallas secured Vander Esch on a $4M deal with snap-based incentives. GM Jerry Jones didn’t hide his enthusiasm: “Leighton’s our heart and soul. We’re thrilled to have him back.” Fans on X (@CowboysNation) are hyped, envisioning him with Micah Parsons and rookie Shavon Revel, much like Zach Tom anchors Green Bay’s line.

Vander Esch’s team-first mentality echoes Andrew Booth’s willingness to step aside for Revel. As training camp nears (July 27), can the “Wolf Hunter” lead Dallas to glory? Follow ESPN for updates!