Cowboys could reunite with former offensive standout?

Oct 16, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; A Dallas Cowboys helmet sits on the field prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Dallas won 30-16. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Cowboys may be bringing back a player who even pre-dates Dak Prescott’s time with the team.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Tuesday that veteran offensive lineman La’el Collins is arriving in Dallas for a workout this week with the Cowboys. Rapoport adds that the Cowboys could sign Collins to their practice squad as he works his way back into football shape.

The 30-year-old Collins signed with the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent out of LSU in 2015 and spent the first seven seasons of his career with them. He developed into a stud in Dallas (particularly as a run blocker), making 71 total starts for the team and helping anchor one of the best offensive lines in all of football. On top of his impressive pancake highlights, Collins gave the Cowboys important versatility by shifting sides to become a full-time right tackle from 2017 onward.

Collins’ star did fade in recent years though. After a big drug suspension spectacle in 2021, the Cowboys gave Collins permission to seek a trade (though they eventually released him with three years left on his contract). Collins then signed with the Cincinnati Bengals and spent the 2022 season with them. But he suffered a torn ACL and MCL late that year and hasn’t played in a game since.

These days, the 11-5 Cowboys are gearing up for another playoff push and have the opportunity to beat out the Philadelphia Eagles for the division title. Collins, if healthy, might be able to provide Dallas with some decent reps, especially with LG Tyler Smith recently suffering a torn plantar fascia.