The Dallas Cowboys (10-4) almost lost more than their game to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Starting LB Leighton Vander Esch left the game with what was thought to be a neck injury. Something that has plagued him for part of his career.

Fortunately for the Cowboys, it was found to only be a stinger to the nerve upon his MRI. An injury that is not thought to be serious or season-threatening.

Per multiple sources Leighton Vander Esch’s injury is unrelated to the neck issue that required surgery in 2019 and more to do with a pinched nerve in his trapezius in his shoulder. Timeline to return not clear at moment but good news in that it’s not related to disc.

— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) December 19, 2022

However, it does put his availability for Saturday against the Philadelphia Eagles into question.

The good news for the Cowboys that even though they are dealing with an injury at home, the Eagles are dealing with a more severe injury as QB Jalen Hurts is dealing with a shoulder sprain. Leaving his availability for Saturday in doubt. 

On a short week, it wouldn't be surprising to see the Cowboys decide to sit Vander Esch. Allowing him to get healthy in time for the playoffs.

It's that same approach that should have him sidelined until the postseason.

It would be a big factor in the run defense. With both LVE and DT Johnathan Hankins not on the field, the run defense struggles heavily in the middle of the field.

While LVE doesn't have the lateral mobility of Damone Clark, he has shown to have some of the best field vision on defense. Usually meaning Anthony Barr is on the field instead.

Not only should LVE be shut down until the postseason, but these three games should be used for second-year LB Jabril Cox to get more snaps on defense. On the year, he has only played 11 snaps on defense.

Cox has only been active for six games this season. Inactive since week 12, and primarily as a special team's player. However, has shown moments of promise as an inside linebacker, displaying speed and coverage abilities that made him so sought after in the draft.

Now that the Dallas Cowboys have clinched a playoff spot, the likelihood is they are going to be the fifth seed. The only way around that is if the Eagles lose out and the Cowboys win out.

Allowing LVE to heal in time for the playoffs and give Cox snaps to aid his development can only help this defense. A defense that is getting picked apart and hurt in key places.

At least at linebacker, they can have some quality insurance.

Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports