The father of retired Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl linebacker Leighton Vander Esch has been taken into custody on multiple charges following an incident in Idaho.
61-year-old Darwin Vander Esch was arrested early Sunday morning near Riggins, Idaho, according to local reports.
Law enforcement responded to a call regarding domestic battery, leading to his arrest.
The Idaho County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Darwin Vander Esch faces charges of felony attempted strangulation, as well as two misdemeanor charges: domestic battery and intentional destruction of a telecommunication device.
He has since been released on bond, according to online records.
Leighton Vander Esch, a Riggins native, rose to fame as a first-round draft pick for the Dallas Cowboys in 2018 after excelling at Boise State.
As a rookie, the 6-foot-4, 256-pound linebacker was named to the Pro Bowl and earned second-team All-Pro honors, quickly establishing himself as a standout defensive player.
Known for his sideline-to-sideline range, physicality, and football intelligence, he was a key player and leader on the Cowboys’ defense.
Off the field, Vander Esch has been celebrated for his work ethic, humble roots, and contributions to charitable causes.
Despite his promising start, injuries, including a recurring neck issue, ultimately cut his career short.
A broken collarbone and another severe neck injury during the 2023 season limited him to just five games that year.
In March, Leighton sadly announced his retirement after six seasons in the NFL.
“I love the game of football so much, and my body won’t cooperate any longer.” he said at the time. “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.”
No further details regarding the charges against Darwin Vander Esch have been released as of now.
