Report: Dallas Cowboys Sign LSU’s La’el Collins

The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly signed undrafted offensive tackle La’el Collins to a three-year deal. According to NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport, the deal, worth $1.65 million, is fully guaranteed.

The #Cowboys deal for #LSU OL La’El Collins is for 3 years, fully guaranteed, per source. (@NFLCharean had it first)

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 7, 2015

The curious case for Collins was uncommon, to say the least. Collins was linked to a murder investigation involving his ex-girlfriend. Further into the investigation, Collins was never considered a suspect, but was asked to answer questions in regards to the investigation. These events had occurred days before draft day, which consequently sparked the downfall of Collins’ draft stock.

In addition to the murder investigation, Collins had voiced his opinion in hopes to be withdrawn from the draft. Collin’s agent and himself had hoped to make a leap at the supplemental draft, a draft hosted in the summer. That would not be the case as the NFL formally declined the request.

Projected to be a first round talent, and possible a top 20 pick, Collins was never selected in the 2015 Draft. 

The concern was not only with the murder investigation, but also due to Collins possibly not signing with the respected team who would draft him. 

Collins voiced his opinion by claiming that if he would not be drafted by day two of the draft, the second and third round, he would then not sign with a team, had he been drafted.

Throughout the offseason, the Cowboys have been making transactions in which can be considered questionable. For example, signing defensive end Greg Hardy, following his ten game suspension, and drafting Randy Gregory, an individual who has shown trouble off the field to a further extent than normal.

Keep in mind, if Collins is, in fact, no harm to his image and the Cowboys’ image, he will perhaps be considered the steal of the draft, or in this case, free agency.

Prior to the Collins’ signing, the Cowboys were notorious for their offensive line unit. After providing the fans of the NFL with an incredible season, and aiding running back DeMarco Murray to a luxurious deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, they have enforced themselves as, potentially, the best offensive line unit in the league.

Although the Cowboys are lacking an elite running game, as mentioned early in regards of Murray departing, having a vigorous offensive line is an immense burden off their respected running back, whether it’d be Darren McFadden, Lance Dunbar, or Joseph Randle.

The Cowboys are known for their offensive unit, primarily their offensive line, and with the addition of Collins, the Cowboys keep building off the foundation of their team.