The Dallas Cowboys have officially solidified their offensive line depth by securing veteran offensive tackle La’el Collins. This move comes swiftly after Collins impressed during a workout earlier this week, providing a crucial reinforcement for the team, especially in light of recent injuries to key offensive linemen.

This signing marks a significant homecoming for Collins, who previously spent the initial years of his NFL career with the Cowboys from 2015 to 2021. Originally joining as an undrafted free agent out of LSU, Collins quickly established himself as a valuable asset, earning a substantial two-year, $15.4 million extension through 2019 after his impressive 2017 season.

His previous tenure with Dallas concluded in 2022 when he was released despite being in the third year of a five-year, $50 million deal. Following his departure from the Cowboys, Collins signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. However, his time there was also cut short, leading to his release before he briefly rejoined the Cowboys’ practice squad in 2023 without appearing in a game.

Collins’ journey continued with a short stint with the Buffalo Bills, whom he joined in April 2024 before being let go in August. This recent history highlights a period of flux for the veteran tackle, making his return to Dallas a point of intrigue for fans and analysts alike, especially given his past performance and current need for immediate impact.

The impetus for Collins’ return is largely due to a recent injury suffered by the Cowboys’ starting left tackle, who is now expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks. This unfortunate development created an immediate void that Collins, with his experience and familiarity with the Cowboys’ system, is uniquely positioned to fill as a much-needed depth addition.

Despite not having taken a snap since the 2022 season, the Cowboys’ confidence in Collins’ ability to contribute suggests they believe his veteran presence and skill set can still be valuable. His past performance, combined with the current demand for reliable offensive line depth, likely outweighed concerns about his recent inactivity.

Ultimately, securing La’el Collins is a strategic decision by the Dallas Cowboys to fortify their offensive line as they navigate the upcoming season. His re-signing provides essential depth and experience, aiming to mitigate the impact of injuries and maintain protection for their quarterback, an vital component for any team eyeing postseason success.