2 Leighton Vander Esch replacements Cowboys can sign (and 1 they should avoid)

2. LB Cowboys should sign: Rashaan Evans

The Cowboys need serviceable linebacker player and the 27-year-old Evans fits that bill.

He's got fresh legs and is coming off the most productive season of his career. In 17 games for the Falcons, Evans tallied 159 tackles, four passes defended, six tackles for loss, 46 run stops and two sacks. His limitations in coverage are duly noted, but it's the second week of October. Beggars can't be choosers.

As a five-year veteran with 67 starts under his belt, Evans would bring needed experience to a position group that just lost its leader.

That shouldn't be understated. It's unclear what (if any) leadership intangibles Evans might have, but it wouldn't hurt to bring in someone who can attempt to replicate Vander Esch's moxie and energy to the rest of the room.