Former Dallas Cowboys and Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackle La’el Collins was once considered lockdown. Dallas’ offensive line was steady and he provided Dak Prescott with the time he needed. Collins was recently cut by the Bengals just one year after signing a three-year, $21 million deal in 2021.
The project didn’t work out for the Bengals, as Collins now finds himself a free agent. A reunion with Dallas would certainly be a good story, but would it work?
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Why a Reunion With La’el Collins Would and Wouldn’t Work
The Good
There is something very special about a player and team reuniting to play together again. Jerry Jones is all in for a feel-good story. He was quick to sign Brandon Carr for a backup role after he was cut by Baltimore. This means that the door is certainly open for a La’el Collins homecoming. Depth is so much more important than anyone realizes.
Tyler Smith and Tyron Smith have both been nagged by injuries recently. While Collins is primarily an offensive tackle, there have been rumblings of him switching to guard. This position switch could be the key to turning the clock back to 2019. Collins would be an excellent depth piece, and he could help mentor younger offensive linemen like Asim Richards. Collins has been part of a deep playoff run, and he can bring the juice to an already very solid line. Dallas shouldn’t brush his talent right off.
The Cowboys reuniting with La’el Collins would be a great story, and helpful for Dak Prescott.
The Bad
And now we’ve reached the portion where we have to be honest with ourselves.
La’el Collins did not look very good in Cincinnati. His job to act as a hitman for Joe Burrow was quickly forgotten, he mostly ended up as a doormat. The hype was real after the Bengals addressed their biggest need just after their recent Super Bowl appearance. He looked to be the key to a Super Bowl ring, the final puzzle piece.
“Your new bodyguard is in town, no one’s touching you,” said Collins. Since this comment, Collins has allowed five sacks and committed eight penalties. He only lasted one full year with Joe Burrow’s squad.
La’el Collins has a difficult time staying healthy. This was one of the main reasons Dallas shipped him off in the first place. Collins’ ACL tear caused a dramatic drop off in his consistency. He could contribute to pass protection if it meant he stayed healthy. A 30-year-old recently-cut lineman with knee issues doesn’t read well on paper.
The Cowboys shouldn’t overlook La’el Collins pending his release. But, they should absolutely do their homework before deciding if a reunion is the smartest move. He brings juice to the game, and he is a six-year Dallas Cowboy. However heartwarming his story might be, it is not likely that Dallas will pull the trigger on a reunion.
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Main Photo: Kevin Jairaj – USA Today Sports
