Linebacker Leighton Vander Esch of the Dallas Cowboys hasn’t played since Week 5 due to a neck injury. The Cowboys’ worst-case scenario has been confirmed by Jerry Jones’ most recent Vander Esch injury update.

According to Jones on 105.3 The Fan, Vander Esch will be out for the rest of the season; h/t NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

According to Todd Archer of ESPN, Jones remained silent when asked if the injury will terminate Vander Esch’s career, but the team owner understands how great of a blow Vander Esch’s loss is.

7Of course, it’s such a huge loss for us, but we had simply entirely left it up to how he was maturing, Jones added.

Jones went on, “He’s a crucial component of our defense out there.” We sincerely want him well, and given the nature of his possible disability, I find myself thinking more broadly than just what might happen in the coming week or month. It all comes down to doing what’s best for him.

Leighton Vander Esch has experienced neck injuries previously. He had neck issues while attending Boise State, and his injuries kept him out of action for much of 2019. During his tenure with the Cowboys, Vander Esch has had injuries.

Jerry Jones is aware of the severity of the injury. Having suffered prior neck injuries, he is aware that this condition may end his career. Still, he’s not attempting to speak it into being. The rest of the season will be lost without Vander Esch. Jones will reevaluate with the linebacker throughout the offseason to determine the severity of his most recent neck ailment.