The Dallas Cowboys are getting ready for life without Sean lee again, at least for the near future.  So rookie first round first round draft pick Leighton Vander Esch will get his career start Sunday against Detroit.

Lee, may be out as many as two games with a strained hamstring.  And Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett says Vander Esch can do the job.

“A big part of the evaluation was his smarts, his intelligence, his instincts for the game.  So, I think we saw that right at the outset.  I think he demonstrated that before he missed some time.  You know both in the Spring and in training camp.  And the other part of it is he was so engaged when he was out.  You know he’s one of those guys that’s chomping at the bit.  He’s tugging at your shorts.  He wants to know what the call is.  He’s playing it out.  So he’s the kind of guy you want on your team, cuz he goes about it the right way, and certainly has a lot of ability.  And his approach is outstanding.  And he grows right before your eyes,” Garrett explained.

Vander Esch responded against Seattle last Sunday.  In 33 snaps, he ended up with 11 tackles, nine solo.  And he’ll tell you, he’s ready to go.

The 1-2 Cowboys host the 1-2 Detroit Lions Sunday at Noon at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.  The contest will be televised on FOX.