Cowboys’ Leighton Vander Esch heading to IR: Who will lead Dallas’ defense in his absence?

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch will land on injured reserve with a neck injury, coach Mike McCarthy said during a Thursday news conference. Here’s what you need to know:

Vander Esch suffered the injury in the Cowboys’ Week 5 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn said Micah Parsons could see more time at linebacker rather than an edge rusher if Vander Esch is out an extended period of time.
Vander Esch started five games this season with 30 total tackles and one fumble recovery he returned for a touchdown.

Behind his…