According to a report, a source believes the Buccaneers should consider signing Collins to strengthen their offensive line and protect quarterback Baker Mayfield. Since losing Luke Goedeke, the team has struggled to find a reliable player to protect Mayfield.
Collins, once one of the best tackles in the league after signing a large contract before the 2019 season, has seen injuries affect his performance.
His issues, combined with injuries, led to his release from Dallas, where he had been part of one of the top offensive lines.
Collins tried to revive his career in Cincinnati after signing a three-year deal, starting 15 games before suffering a season-ending injury, missing all of the 2023 season while recovering. Collins remains one of the best available tackles, and he is expected to find a new team soon.
However, no teams have yet reached out after he didn’t make Buffalo’s final roster cuts in August. Collins still has a chance to help a team in need of veteran leadership and quarterback protection.
Cowboys, Chargers Eyeing La’el Collins?
Possible Reunion in Dallas?
Dallas might be a familiar option for Collins’ return. The Cowboys have one of the youngest offensive lines this season, with Zack Martin as their oldest lineman. While it’s unclear if Tyler Guyton will be ready for Week 6, signing Collins would offer insurance.
Though Collins may not be the player he once was alongside Martin and former Cowboy Travis Frederick, he could still contribute.
Dallas is already rotating tackles to fill gaps, and Collins could allow Tyler Smith to play his natural position while keeping T.J. Bass as a backup.
The Cowboys lack depth in their wide receiver group behind CeeDee Lamb, so improving the offensive line would benefit Dak Prescott. Collins knows the system and could provide the needed help.
Collins could also be the solution to a struggling run game. While Rico Dowdle has shown potential, Ezekiel Elliott is still struggling, and Collins could help both Elliott and Prescott regain form and chemistry.
Support for Justin Herbert
Rookie Joe Alt’s return is good news for Justin Herbert, but Herbert is still recovering from a high-ankle sprain.
Jim Harbaugh must prioritize protecting Herbert once the team returns from their bye week. The injury has improved, but lingering issues remain.
Harbaugh focuses on winning games by dominating the trenches, which requires a strong offensive line. The Chargers’ run game has been average, and adding Collins could bolster their efforts. They can’t rely solely on Alt and Rashawn Slater, so Collins could bring stability to the offense.
