The Dallas Cowboys appear destined to be down standout linebacker Leighton Vander Esch for Monday night's showdown with the New York Giants. According to Todd Archer of ESPN, is unlikely to play in the divisional tilt. Officially, he is questionable.

Vander Esch, a rookie Pro Bowler in 2018, suffered a neck injury in Dallas' blowout win over the Philadelphia Eagles on Oct. 20. The organization hoped that he would be able to play on Monday following a Week 8 bye. But, after three limited practices, in which he did not participate in team snaps, per Archer, the team looks as if they are playing it safe.

According to Brianna Dix of D210Sports, Vander Esch continues deal with stiffness and mobility issues. Barring an unforeseen change of circumstances, the second-year standout will miss the first game of his career.

Veteran Sean Lee would get the start at weakside linebacker if Vander Esch sits. A two-time Pro Bowler (2015, 16) and 2016 first-team All-Pro, Lee played a season-high 46 snaps against the Eagles and recorded 11 tackles. Backup Joe Thomas would also see an uptick in snaps.

“Sean's played a lot of football for us at a very high level and is very smart,” coach Jason Garrett said, via Archer. “He's embraced his role up to this point this year, but one of his great strengths is his versatility and he can play different spots. Joe Thomas can play different spots as well. Those guys have been real positive factors for us up to this point. We're hopeful on Leighton, so we'll see how it goes the next couple of days.”

Though losing Vander Esch hurts, the Cowboys are — and should be — confident in their depth at the position.