In a heartfelt return to the Dallas Cowboys, veteran offensive lineman La’el Collins is determined to reclaim his place on the field and protect his quarterback, Dak Prescott, with a promise that resonates both on and off the gridiron. During the Cowboys’ 31-21 preseason loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday night, Collins played just 10 snaps—a brief cameo for the 32-year-old lineman. But his ambitions stretch far beyond a supporting role, as he eyes a significant impact in the regular season.
In a recent ESPN feature, Collins shared a touching moment from his reunion with the Cowboys, revealing a message he delivered to Prescott’s daughter, MJ: “I’m going to protect your daddy. Nobody’s going to get him.” It’s a pledge rooted in loyalty and a bond that has endured through Collins’ winding NFL journey.
This marks Collins’ third stint with the Cowboys, a team where he previously anchored offensive lines that paved the way for two-time NFL rushing champion Ezekiel Elliott. Signed after training camp began due to a string of injuries to Dallas’ roster, Collins faces a tough battle to secure a spot on the final lineup. His path hasn’t been easy—after leaving Dallas in 2022 for the Cincinnati Bengals in free agency, a devastating torn ACL and MCL sidelined him, keeping him off the field since. Now, at 300 pounds—his lightest since high school—and with a fully recovered knee, Collins is ready to prove he’s still got what it takes.
For Collins, returning to Dallas wasn’t just a career move; it was a homecoming. “The best-case scenario was to go back where it all started,” he told ESPN. “It’s nowhere else I’d rather be, that’s 100% a fact. Even when I left, it was nothing like home. This is where my heart is, so I want to continue to finish off strong here.”
Collins’ connection to the Cowboys runs deeper than football. He was present at the offseason retirement ceremonies for former teammates Zack Martin and Tyron Smith, a testament to the enduring relationships he’s built. His camaraderie with Prescott, in particular, shines through in his affectionate vow to MJ, whom he calls his “baby niece.” “MJ ain’t got to worry. Her dad will be protected,” Collins said with a grin. “I got two nieces now. So I’m just excited to be the favorite uncle.”
That promise carries weight for Collins, who is eager to stand in front of Prescott once again, shielding him from opposing defenses. It’s a role he’s played before, and one he’s determined to reprise with renewed vigor.
At 32, Collins knows the road to a roster spot is steep, but his leaner physique and healthy knee signal a player revitalized. His decision to return to Dallas wasn’t just about familiarity—it was about unfinished business. “This is what I know,” he said, emphasizing his desire to end his career where it began, protecting his quarterback and leaving a legacy with the team that holds his heart.
As the regular season approaches, Collins is poised to transform his 10-snap cameo into a starring role. For Dak Prescott, MJ, and Cowboys fans everywhere, La’el Collins is ready to deliver on his promise—keeping defenders at bay and proving that there’s no place like Dallas for his NFL comeback.