EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Weak side linebacker Leighton Vander Esch has been ruled out of Monday Night Football’s divisional rival game against the New York Giants per source. He was listed as questionable following Saturday’s practice.
LVE is still dealing with stiffness and range of motion issues in his shoulder. The past week of practice, he did limited work on the side and did not participate in team drills.
No.55 exited the game against the Eagles in week seven due to a neck stinger. The team was hopeful Vander Esch would be able to rest up during the bye week and that he would be ready to go against New York but he is still not 100%.
Sean Lee will take over at will-backer playing more snaps including nickel packages, and Joe Thomas will start at sam-backer in place of Lee.
Through seven games, LVE has recorded 66 total tackles (43 solo), 0.5 sack, three quarterback pressures, one forced fumble, and two pass deflections. He has become one of the core pieces in Dallas’ defense and the hotboyz will have to be set in man and zone coverage to contain the Giants’ offensive weapons: Saquon Barkley, Evan Engram, and Golden Tate.
