The Dallas Cowboys welcomed back veteran offensive lineman La’el Collins in early August 2025, a move that has been met with widespread optimism regarding the bolstering of their offensive front. After nearly three years away from regular season action due to injuries and team changes, Collins is aiming to revive his career and play a pivotal role in protecting quarterback Dak Prescott and enhancing the Cowboys’ offensive efficiency.
Collins, 32, originally signed with the Cowboys as an undrafted rookie in 2015 and quickly established himself as a durable and reliable starter. Between 2017 and 2019, he started 71 of 74 games, earning solid reputations for both run blocking and pass protection. His 2019 campaign was particularly impressive, earning him one of the highest grades among NFL tackles. However, the past few years have been challenging due to significant injuries, including a serious ACL and MCL tear suffered late in the 2022 season while playing for Cincinnati. Since then, he’s been attempting a comeback, including a brief practice squad stint with Dallas in 2024 and a workout this offseason that led to his re-signing by the team after injuries decimated the Cowboys’ offensive line depth early in training camp.
The recent injuries to starting left tackle Tyler Guyton, who is expected to miss four to six weeks with a bone fracture, combined with setbacks to other linemen like guard Rob Jones and rookie Tyler Smith, made Collins’ return timely. Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer noted that young players like Asim Richards and Nate Thomas will get early opportunities to fill in but expressed confidence that Collins provides a veteran presence and stabilizing force. Collins himself lost about 25 pounds during his recovery process, arriving in improved shape and determined to contribute at a high level.
Collins is known not only for his physicality and technique but also for his familiarity with the Cowboys’ offensive system, having spent six seasons in Dallas before. This continuity is invaluable as the team adapts to injuries and tries to maintain offensive production. He recently said in media interviews that protecting Dak Prescott remains a top priority: “I’m going to protect your daddy. Nobody’s going to get him,” referencing a conversation with Prescott’s daughter and underscoring his commitment to their shared success.
Statistically, when healthy, Collins has been consistent at limiting pressures and creating pockets for Prescott to operate. During his peak years, Dallas’ offensive line allowed some of the lowest quarterback pressures in the NFL, and Collins' return is expected to help return that stability. His veteran savvy will also be crucial in mentoring younger linemen and helping with in-game adjustments.
Beyond pass protection, Collins' run blocking ability is equally important in complementing Dallas’ offensive scheme, which balances pass and run to keep defenses guessing. His physical style helps create lanes for running backs, allowing the Cowboys’ ground game to thrive alongside Prescott’s mobility.
La’el Collins’ return is more than just a roster move; it symbolizes resilience and the Cowboys' desire to stay competitive despite injury adversity. If Collins can return to near his pre-injury form, Dallas’ offense will benefit significantly from his experience, versatility, and leadership.
In summary, Collins’ reintegration into the Cowboys’ offensive line brings much-needed depth and a veteran presence that could help steady a unit facing early setbacks. As Dallas looks ahead to the 2025 season opener and beyond, Collins’ health and performance will be key factors in protecting Prescott, sustaining offensive momentum, and driving the team’s success.
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