Former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch’s father, Darwin Vander Esch, was arrested over the weekend on multiple domestic violence-related charges. The Idaho County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the arrest, citing felony attempted strangulation, misdemeanor domestic battery, and misdemeanor intentional destruction of a telecommunication device.
According to a press release from the Sheriff’s Office, a call regarding a domestic battery incident was received at 12:16 a.m. on Sunday from a home near Riggins, Idaho. Deputies responded to the scene and conducted an investigation that ultimately led to Darwin Vander Esch’s arrest.
Court records indicate that Darwin Vander Esch has since been released on bond. However, no additional details about the incident or the individuals involved have been made public.
Leighton Vander Esch, who retired from the NFL earlier this year due to persistent injury issues, has not issued any public statements regarding his father’s arrest.
The former linebacker was a standout player at Boise State before being drafted by the Cowboys in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. During his six-year career in Dallas, Vander Esch made 469 tackles, 3.5 sacks, forced three fumbles, and secured three interceptions. His remarkable rookie season earned him a Pro Bowl selection and a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team.
Despite his early success, Vander Esch’s career was plagued by neck injuries, which ultimately led to his decision to step away from the game. In his retirement announcement, he reflected on his journey, saying:
“I love the game of football so much, and my body won’t cooperate any longer. 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.”
Leighton Vander Esch isn’t the only athlete in the family. His cousin, Caleb Vander Esch, played college football at South Dakota and most recently played professionally for the Arlington Renegades of the UFL.
As the investigation unfolds, the Vander Esch family remains under scrutiny, with fans and the public awaiting further updates on this troubling situation.
