Vander Esch’s well being troubles led the Cowboys to say no his fifth-year choice, and after signing a one-year deal to return in 2022, one other harm — this time, a neck stinger — value him 4 video games. A yr later, one more neck challenge would value him all however 5 contests within the 2023 season.
Now, he is headed to free company, the place his future could be very unsure. After a number of neck points and a failed bodily, it is honest to wonder if we have seen him play his final NFL snap.
Within the meantime, Dallas is clearing cap area in an try and make room for additions after largely standing pat through the first week of free company. The Cowboys will save roughly $2.1 million by releasing Vander Esch, and can keep away from absolutely guaranteeing Gallup’s wage for 2024 by releasing him earlier than the fifth day of the brand new league yr.
Gallup’s story is much like that of Vander Esch, considered one of promise interrupted by harm. Simply as he was hovering towards a profitable payday after racking up over 2,000 receiving yards between 2019 and 2020, Gallup suffered a torn ACL in 2021, reducing his incomes energy. He nonetheless signed a five-year, $57.4 million cope with Dallas, however has struggled to regain the talents that when put him in line for large cash.
After two straight seasons beneath 500 receiving yards, the Cowboys have determined now could be the time to half with Gallup within the curiosity of salary-cap solvency. We’ll see what curiosity he attracts on the open market.