Cowboys LB Leighton Vander Esch Expected to Miss Sunday's Game at New England With Neck Injury

The Dallas Cowboys have a true test coming this weekend against the 9-1 New England Patriots, but will have to hack it without their star linebacker.

According to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, Leighton Vander Esch is not expected to play this weekend after experiencing a flare-up in his neck area on Thursday. After getting an MRI, Vander Esch's status for Sunday has fallen deeply into doubt.

Concerns have surfaced about Cowboys LB Leighton Vander Esch, who's already missed one game in 2019 to a neck injury. He underwent an MRI today for further evaluation following a flare-up. He is not expected to play Sunday vs. Patriots, sources said.
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) November 21, 2019

Veteran Sean Lee is expected to fill in for Vander Esch, while Joe Thomas will play Lee's strong-side linebacker position.

Vander Esch has had concerns regarding his neck ever since coming out of Boise State in 2018. The young 'backer silenced the critics last season, however, playing all 16 games with no injuries or ailments and distinguishing himself with consistent standout play.

Medical concerns came to light a couple of weeks ago, unfortunately. When playing the rival Philadelphia Eagles in Week 7, Vander Esch suffered a neck stinger while making a tackle. As a result, he missed Dallas' next game against the New York Giants in Week 9.

Report: Neck injury expected to keep Leighton Vander Esch out Sunday https://t.co/i2YFc6Ppmt
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) November 22, 2019

Vander Esch did manage to play for Big D in their past two games against the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions. In nine games of work this season, Vander Esch has recorded 72 total tackles, three passes defensed, one forced fumble, and 0.5 sacks.

While the New England Patriots offense has essentially fallen off a cliff as of late, the Dallas Cowboys would feel much more confident in winning with Leighton Vander Esch on the field. Alas, that won't be the case on Sunday against the defending champs.