Hard to believe that a player with an early round grade went undrafted in this year's draft. But teams passed on La'el Collins, the offensive tackle from Louisiana State University, because of the possibility of his involvement with an ongoing murder case regarding a former girlfriend of his. The former LSU star became a suspect days prior to the draft and subsequently fell off most team's draft boards. Collins even insinuated that he would not sign with a team if they drafted him past the early rounds. Without being drafted, Collins became an undrafted free agent and was able to sign with the team of his choice, the Dallas Cowboys.
Collins surrounded himself with agents and a team of lawyers to start his defense against the accusations of his involvement with his ex's homicide. With the draft going on, his lawyers were busy trying to clear his name, while his agents made sure that if he wasn't drafted in the first few rounds, then teams should pass on drafting him altogether. That strategy worked, with Collins now signed to a contract similar to that of an early/mid round pick, while also being able sign with the team of his choice.
One of his agents, Mike McCartney, told Sports Illustrated of their desire for Collins to land at a comfortable environment:
"We felt it would be important for a place that had stability at QB, coach, offensive line coach. Not for one year, but the next few years. We wanted a QB that spits the ball out quickly, because we all see QBs who hold onto the ball, take sacks, and then you go blame the young blocker."
Collins even expressed his thoughts on joining the Cowboys and their Pro-Bowl laden line. The Dallas Morning News has his profound statements on the new team, which he espoused during his introductory press conference:
"This is going to be the greatest offensive line in NFL history. Mark my words."
Big words for a big player, who desperately needs to show the Cowboys he is well worth the investment.
Do you think Collins is a good fit for the Cowboys? Does Americas Team now have the best offensive line in NFL history? Tell us what you think below.
