March 15 (UPI) -- The Dallas Cowboys upgraded their defense, acquiring cornerback Stephon Gilmore in a trade and re-signing veteran linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, the team announced.
The team announced the deals Wednesday. They agreed to send a fifth-round pick to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for Gilmore. The Cowboys re-signed Gilmore to a two-year deal. Sources told ESPN, NFL Network and The Athletic that the pact is worth $11 million.
Gilmore signed with the Colts last off-season. The five-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time All-Pro totaled 66 combined tackles, 11 passes defensed and two interceptions in 16 starts last season.
He received the ninth-best defensive rating among cornerbacks last season, according to Pro Football Focus. He received the sixth-best coverage grade at the position.
Dallas Cowboys, safety Donovan Wilson agree to $24 million deal