The father of former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch has been arrested on charges of attempted strangulation. The incident took place over the weekend in Idaho, where 61-year-old Darwin Vander Esch was also arrested for misdemeanor domestic battery and intentional destruction of a telecommunication device.
According to authorities, Darwin Vander Esch is currently being held in custody without bond. Police responded to a call reporting domestic battery in the early hours of December 1 and arrived on the scene shortly thereafter, where they arrested Vander Esch. No further details about the incident have been released, and the investigation is ongoing.
Leighton Vander Esch, who played six seasons for the Dallas Cowboys, has not yet made any public comment regarding his father’s arrest. The situation marks a difficult moment for the retired NFL star, who has always been known for his close ties to his family and his small-town upbringing in Idaho.
Leighton Vander Esch announced his retirement from professional football earlier this year, citing the toll that injuries had taken on his body. The 28-year-old was a first-round draft pick for the Cowboys in 2018, and he made an immediate impact during his rookie season, earning a Pro Bowl selection. Vander Esch was known for his physical playing style, high football IQ, and relentless work ethic, which made him a fan favorite in Dallas.
However, his career was plagued by neck injuries, which significantly affected his ability to stay on the field. After multiple stints on injured reserve and continuous struggles to recover, Vander Esch ultimately decided it was time to step away from the game.
In his retirement announcement, Vander Esch expressed his love for football and his deep appreciation for the opportunities the game had provided him. “I love the game of football so much, and my body won’t cooperate any longer,” he said. “I cherished every moment of my NFL career, and it has been such a blessing to play the game for as long as I have played.”
Following his retirement, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones paid tribute to Vander Esch, emphasizing the impact he had made on the team from the moment he arrived. “His passion and love for the game was contagious, and from the moment he arrived, he has been a difference maker,” Jones said. “His grit, toughness, motivation, determination, and football IQ will be sorely missed.” Vander Esch was respected not only for his abilities on the field but also for his leadership and dedication to his teammates.
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The Cowboys are currently navigating through the 2024 NFL season, sitting third in the NFC East with a record of 5-7. Despite their struggles, they managed a win against the New York Giants in their most recent game, which took place on Thanksgiving Day.
The Cowboys continue to fight for a chance at a postseason berth, though they currently sit three wins behind the second-place Washington Commanders.
For Leighton Vander Esch, this year has already been a period of transition as he steps into life after professional football. The arrest of his father undoubtedly adds a personal challenge to what has already been an emotional journey. Vander Esch has been a beloved figure in Dallas for his dedication on and off the field, and many fans are likely offering their support during this difficult time.
As this situation develops, the focus remains on the ongoing investigation, and it is unclear when or if Leighton Vander Esch will address the matter publicly.
In the meantime, those who have followed his career and admired his contributions to the Cowboys will continue to support him through this challenging chapter.
