5 Dallas Cowboys who deserve a contract extension

Leighton Vander Esch, LB

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch is such a difficult call with regards to an extension. His injury history certainly pushes the pause button but when on the field he is a very good player.

Vander Esch has a cap number of $3.7 million which makes his case of extending for cap relief a dead end. If the Cowboys intend to pick up his fifth-year option next season then a deal might be worth exploring now.

Since Vander Esch already has a Pro Bowl nod under his belt, his fifth-year option would be around $13 million.

Considering Jaylon Smith makes an average of $12 million, the decision will likely affect the other linebacker. By reading the pulse of Dallas fans, Jaylon would seem to be the odd man out but it is not as close as many think. This comparison might make you think differently.

Both players had a great 2018 season but both have drastically fallen off after that year. Vander Esch might have a slightly higher play than Jaylon when he is hot but his lows are below Jaylon’s as well according to this metric.

I have major concerns regarding the health of Vander Esch but if he would not be opposed to having some type of injury clause regarding his neck, I would love to hear that the Dallas Cowboys make a contract offer that fits their needs.

If the Cowboys do not plan on picking up his fifth-year option he should still be in the team’s plans this upcoming season. The Cowboys shockingly decided not to pay cornerback Byron Jones and I have a feeling that Vander Esch could receive the same courtesy if his injuries continue to keep him out of the lineup.