Dallas Cowboys Bring Back La’el Collins: A Familiar Face With Something to Prove
The Dallas Cowboys are no strangers to second chances, and this offseason, they’re doubling down on that approach by bringing back a familiar face—offensive lineman La’el Collins. After realizing their depth on the offensive line needed some reinforcement, the Cowboys wasted no time rekindling ties with Collins, who’s no stranger to the organization or the fans.
A Quick Dive Into Collins' Cowboys Journey
Let’s rewind for a moment. La’el Collins first entered the NFL scene with the Cowboys in 2015. Despite being widely regarded as a first-round talent coming out of LSU, things didn’t go as expected during the draft. Why? It wasn’t about his football skills; off-field concerns caused his draft stock to plummet. As a result, Collins slipped through the cracks and went undrafted.
Yet, the Cowboys saw potential where others hesitated. They took a gamble and signed Collins as an undrafted free agent. That gamble quickly paid dividends. Collins not only earned his spot but became a vital piece of the Cowboys’ offensive line for six solid seasons. By 2019, Dallas showed their confidence by handing him a massive five-year deal worth roughly $50 million. Not bad for a guy who wasn’t even drafted.
But NFL careers are rarely straightforward. Collins’ time in Dallas ended earlier than expected. In 2022, whispers around the league suggested Dallas was looking to move on from him, even though he had three years left on his contract. The Cowboys opened calls for trade offers, but nothing materialized, leading to his release.
Bengals Stint and Injury Woes
Not long after leaving Dallas, Collins landed a three-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. However, his luck seemed to turn south. From the jump, Collins battled a nagging back injury that limited his impact. Things got worse late in the season when he tore his ACL, a devastating injury for any athlete.
His rehab process stretched through the following year, keeping him sidelined and off the field. Eventually, the Bengals waived him, making Collins a free agent once again. At this point, many wondered if Collins could return to his previous form.
Back to Dallas, But Not Quite the Same Story
January 2024 saw Collins rejoin the Cowboys—but this time, it was to the practice squad. It was a low-key return, but a hopeful one nonetheless. With the season coming to a close, Collins was gearing up for free agency once more. There was some buzz when the Buffalo Bills tried him out, but Collins didn’t make their final roster cuts. The entire 2024 NFL season passed with him sitting on the sidelines, watching and waiting.
The Summer of Redemption
Fast forward to 2025, and the Cowboys have called Collins back for another shot. This isn’t just a random reunion; it’s a strategic move. The Cowboys need depth on the line, and Collins knows the playbook and the organization better than most. Plus, having Dak Prescott still leading the offense adds a layer of familiarity that could smooth the transition.
That said, it’s far from guaranteed. Collins is stepping into a competitive situation, with multiple players nursing injuries and others vying for limited spots. It’s a high-stakes environment where only the strongest survive.
What’s Next for Collins?
There’s a lot on the line for Collins this summer. This is a “prove it” moment—he has to show the Cowboys that he’s healthy, sharp, and ready to contribute. The team is betting on his experience and prior success, but the NFL waits for no one.
Here are some key points to keep an eye on:
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Familiarity with the Cowboys system: Collins knows the playbook and culture, which could give him an edge.
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Relationship with Dak Prescott: Their existing chemistry might help Collins get back in sync quickly.
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Physical health: After those injuries, can Collins get back to full strength?
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Depth needs: Cowboys’ current lineup has some uncertainties, making Collins’ return timely.
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Competition: He’s not walking in unopposed; other players will be fighting hard for that roster spot.
Why This Matters for the Cowboys
Depth on the offensive line is critical, especially for a team with championship aspirations. Injuries can and do happen, and having a seasoned veteran like Collins on the roster could be the difference-maker when it counts most. Plus, his ability to play multiple positions on the line adds valuable flexibility.
It’s also worth noting that the Cowboys have taken chances before with players who needed a second shot—and it often worked out. Collins’ story fits right into that narrative. If he can return to his old form, it’s a win-win for both player and team.
A Look Back at the 2015 Draft Drama
To truly appreciate Collins’ journey, you have to look back at the 2015 NFL Draft. At LSU, Collins was a beast on the line, projecting as a first-round pick. But the draft process can be unpredictable, especially when off-field issues arise.
Collins went undrafted despite his talent, leading some to speculate he might just sit out the NFL for a year. Instead, the Cowboys saw past the headlines and offered him a shot. That gamble blossomed into a solid career—one that the Cowboys hope can have a new chapter starting this summer.
Final Thoughts
La’el Collins is more than just a name on the Cowboys’ roster sheet this offseason. He’s a story of resilience, second chances, and unfinished business. For the Cowboys, it’s about strengthening their offensive line and ensuring they have the depth needed to tackle the tough NFL season ahead.
For Collins, it’s about shaking off the injuries, proving he still has what it takes, and making the most of this opportunity with a team that knows him well. As summer workouts heat up and the preseason approaches, all eyes will be on Collins to see if he can get back on his feet—literally and figuratively—and help the Cowboys forge ahead.
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