Patriots ‘Interested’ in Former Cowboys’ OL?

With injuries continuing to mount along their offensive line, the New England Patriots are reportedly kicking the tires on former Dallas Cowboys' star La'el Collins.

With the offensive line still a concern - and starting left tackle Trent Brown now added to the list of injured starters - the New England Patriots are doing their "due diligence" on potential help. The Patriots might turn for help to recently released Cincinnati Bengals and former Dallas Cowboys right tackle La'el Collins, according to a report from Mass Live's Mark Daniels.

"According to a league source, the Patriots have shown interest in Collins," Daniels writes. "However, at this time, the team’s level of interest is considered due diligence, according to a second source."

Collins, 30, played in 15 games at right tackle for the Bengals last season before suffering a torn ACL on Christmas Eve against New England. That same injury caused him to open the season the season on Cincinnati's "physically unable to perform" (PUP) list before he was cut this week.

But why did the Bengals suddenly cut Collins after keeping him on the roster for Week 1? Well, it likely boils down to cap space, as Cincinnati potentially freed up around $7 million in room just days after signing quarterback Joe Burrow to a market-setting extension. 

With more contract maneuvers looming, the Bengals will have to decide on players like receiver Tee Higgins. So it didn't make sense to pay Collins, who looked set to be the backup behind Jonah Williams at right tackle after they signed Orlando Brown to play on the left side in free agency.

As for the Patriots, a deal with Collins could make sense on many different levels. First, his versatility has allowed him to play at guard, which could prove valuable after Michael Onwenu and Cole Strange missed the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles due to injuries. Additionally, his experience at tackle could make him an immediate starter over Calvin Anderson. 

Collins has started 86 games over his eight-year career.