After days of negotiating, the Bengals have signed OT La’el Collins to a 3 year deal.
Collins was a recent cap casualty of the Cowboys. Dallas had attempted to trade him, but they were unable to find any takers, with team’s knowing that he’d likely be released.
The now 28 year old visited with the Bengals on Friday and into Saturday. He had met with members of the team’s staff, and Joe Burrow was also involved in the process. His connection with Frank Pollack from the Cowboys also helped. It seemed as though Collins would be leaving to take a visit with another team, as he continued to weigh his options, but the Bengals stepped in before that could happen. They circled back before he could leave, and seemingly upped their offer.
Collins was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Cowboys in 2015. Since then, he has become one of the best RT’s in the game, being part of one of the better o-line units in the NFL for several years.
He now joins the Bengals, upgrading a position that was a major need. As well, this just about completes the team’s overhaul of the OL.
As things stand, this is the projected starting lineup:
LT: Jonah Williams – LG: Jackson Carman – C: Ted Karras – RG: Alex Cappa – RT: La’el Collins
All but the LG position are locked in. Carman will be in a competition for the spot. You figure guys like Hakeem Adeniji and D’Ante Smith will be involved, as well. It is also possible that Quinton Spain returns on a 1 year deal. However, if Carman is able to turn the flashes into consistency, it will be his to lose. Moving back to the left side should help.
