By Sunday 
The Dallas Cowboys are turning to a trusted name to help stabilize a shaky situation—welcome back, La’el Collins.
A Reunion Born of Necessity
Injuries have already started knocking at the Cowboys’ door this preseason. Most notably, rookie offensive tackle Tyler Guyton suffered a setback that’s left Dallas scrambling for reinforcements. Enter La’el Collins, a veteran lineman who knows the playbook, the team culture, and most of the guys in that locker room.
Collins, who anchored the Dallas offensive line from 2015 to 2021, reportedly dropped 25 pounds and impressed during a workout in Oxnard, California—enough for the team to offer him a deal and bring him back into the fold. He spent time with the Bills during the 2024 offseason but was still looking for the right landing spot. Looks like he never really left home.
Why It Makes Sense
This isn’t a nostalgia move—it’s strategy. Collins’ experience and chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott, as well as his understanding of the offensive scheme, make him a plug-and-play option. With a new head coach in Brian Schottenheimer and a fanbase hungry for a deep playoff run, Dallas can’t afford to let the offensive line unravel before Week 1.
Re-signing Collins gives the Cowboys breathing room and allows them to maintain continuity while younger players develop or recover.
Can He Still Ball?
That’s the big question. Injuries have hampered Collins in recent years, but his return to form—combined with better conditioning—could give the Cowboys exactly what they need: a steady, tough presence to keep defenders away from Prescott.
As the Cowboys deal with drama surrounding Micah Parsons’ trade request and other roster uncertainties, this move is a reminder that Dallas still knows how to pivot smartly when the pressure’s on.
Whether Collins becomes a starter again or simply depth insurance, his return is a timely one. For now, fans will just be glad to see No. 71 back in the trenches, where he’s always belonged.