In a stunning turn of events, the Dallas Cowboys are poised to bring back veteran offensive lineman La’el Collins, igniting excitement among fans and players alike. Following a successful workout on Friday morning, sources confirm the team is finalizing a deal to welcome the former LSU standout for a second stint in Dallas. Collins himself teased the blockbuster move on social media, posting a bold “I’m back” alongside an enthusiastic “Geaux Time!”—a nod to his Louisiana roots.
While the deal awaits official confirmation, expected by Saturday, the Cowboys are preparing to make a corresponding roster move to accommodate the 32-year-old powerhouse. Collins, who last suited up in 2022 with the Cincinnati Bengals, started all 15 games at right tackle before a devastating Week 16 injury—a torn ACL and MCL—sidelined him for the remainder of that season and placed him on the PUP list in 2023. The Bengals released him in September of that year, leaving Collins hungry for redemption and a chance to reclaim his place among the NFL’s elite linemen.
A former undrafted free agent, Collins was a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ iconic offensive line from 2015 to 2021, anchoring the right tackle position alongside legends like Tyron Smith, Zack Martin, and Travis Frederick. That dominant unit became the backbone of Dallas’ high-octane offense, paving the way for memorable seasons and earning a special place in Cowboys lore. Collins’ return signals a homecoming for a player who embodies the grit and heart of that era.
Collins hasn’t been a stranger to the Cowboys’ facilities recently. He attended the retirement ceremonies for both Smith and Martin this offseason, reconnecting with teammates and soaking in the electric atmosphere at The Star in Frisco. Among those thrilled to see him was his longtime friend and quarterback, Dak Prescott, who couldn’t hide his excitement when asked about a potential reunion after Thursday’s padded practice.
“I just saw him back there, actually,” Prescott said, a wide grin spreading across his face. “It was a joyous reunion. LC is a guy I love—y’all know he’s a friend well beyond the field. Honestly, at those retirement events, I was looking at him and telling Britt [Brown] and others around here, ‘Man, he looks as good as he’s ever looked.’”
With the Cowboys grappling with a wave of injuries along the offensive line and across the roster, Collins’ return is a timely boost. The veteran lineman is as motivated as ever to protect Prescott, just as he did as a rookie in 2015. Prescott shared a heartwarming anecdote from their recent encounter, where Collins, holding Prescott’s daughter MJ, made a promise that resonated deeply.
“He’s telling her, ‘I’m going to protect your daddy here—nobody’s gonna get him,’” Prescott recounted. “I want to hear that, and I’m sure she does too.”
As the Cowboys prepare to finalize Collins’ return, the NFL world is buzzing with anticipation. Can this battle-tested veteran recapture the magic of his earlier Dallas days? One thing is certain: La’el Collins is back, and he’s ready to make a statement. The Star is about to shine a little brighter.