La'el Collins opens up on reunion with Dallas Cowboys

La’el Collins is a Dallas Cowboy once again. The former starting right tackle opened up to reporters this week about his return to the team after spending the majority of the 2023 season as a free agent.

“It’s amazing,” Collins said, via DallasCowboys.com. “Feels great. I could never have even dreamed of it. I’m super excited and looking forward to this opportunity to just be a great leader and whatever they need me to be here.”

Despite returning to DFW after almost two years away, much has remained the same. With Dak Prescott still leading the team and most of the starting offensive line intact – minus the addition of Tyler Smith – the former LSU star is surrounded by familiar faces.

“I think that’s one of the most underrated things — the support from my guys,” he said. “The moment I walked into the building, it just felt like I was right back at home, like I didn’t ever leave. It’s special and I embrace that. I don’t take it for granted.”

Though he’s just on the practice squad for now, there’s an opportunity for him to contribute in the postseason if the Cowboys need him. Collins says he’s willing to play any position Dallas could ask of him – including full-back. Fully recovered from his ACL/MCL tear at the end of the 2022 season, he is ready to get right back in the groove with his former squad.

Collins doesn’t even have to relocate. The ninth-year veteran never sold his house in DFW so he gets to begin the new year in his old home.

“Just came back to the house, turned the lights on and picked up right where I left off,” Collins said. “Honestly, I was in a position where I was thinking about letting my body rest as much as possible this year and getting back next season, but this was the right time and the right place.

“I had gotten to that point within myself, mentally, where I felt like [I know] my leg is good physically, and now I’m just ready to play ball again; and 2024 couldn’t have started off any better.”

Prescott exited to reunite with Collins

After taking 17 sacks over the last five games, Dak Prescott couldn’t be more excited to get Collins back. His excitement is about a lot more than what the lineman can provide on the field. The two have remained steadfast friends since his departure.

“It’s great,” said Prescott of the reunion. “Just talking about friends away from here? That’s one of the guys. I think a lot of these guys are, but La’el, he’s always been that way.”

Even before Will McClay gave Collins the call about coming in for a workout, Prescott tipped his former teammate off that a deal could be on the table in Dallas. The one-time Bengal considered continuing to sit out the remainder of the season, but the opportunity to return home and play with his former QB was too sweet.

“He’s always been a friend. He’s been a brother,” Prescott said. “Excited for him to be back. I know how much he wants this. 

“I know how much he’s going to offer this team. It’s exciting. I know he’s going to do his job at the highest level and he’s not going to let anybody mess with me, so I’m always a fan of that.”

The Cowboys travel to face the Washington Commanders on Sunday for a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff.