Kym Matz

Written by Kym Matz

Published: 18 Sep 2025

25-facts-about-lael-collins
Source: Dallascowboys.com

Who is La'El Collins? La'El Collins is a professional American football player known for his versatility on the offensive line. Born on July 26, 1993, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he played college football at LSU, where he earned All-American honors. Collins went undrafted in the 2015 NFL Draft due to off-field concerns but quickly signed with the Dallas Cowboys, where he made an immediate impact. He has played both guard and tackle positions, showcasing his strength and agility. Collins' journey from undrafted free agent to a key player in the NFL is a testament to his hard work and determination.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

La'El Collins has an interesting journey that began long before he stepped onto an NFL field. Let's explore some fascinating facts about his early life and background.

  1. Born in Baton Rouge: La'El Collins was born on July 26, 1993, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This city is known for its vibrant culture and strong football traditions.

  2. High School Star: Collins attended Redemptorist High School in Baton Rouge, where he excelled in football. He was a standout offensive lineman, earning numerous accolades.

  3. Top Recruit: Coming out of high school, Collins was one of the top offensive line recruits in the nation. He was highly sought after by many top college programs.

  4. Family Support: Collins credits much of his success to the unwavering support of his family, who encouraged him to pursue his dreams from a young age.

College Career at LSU

La'El Collins chose to stay close to home for his college career, playing for the LSU Tigers. His time at LSU was marked by significant achievements and growth.

  1. LSU Commitment: Collins committed to Louisiana State University (LSU), where he played for the Tigers from 2011 to 2014.

  2. Freshman Year: In his freshman year, Collins played in seven games, showcasing his potential and earning valuable experience.

  3. Starting Role: By his sophomore year, Collins secured a starting position on the offensive line, a role he maintained throughout his college career.

  4. All-SEC Honors: Collins earned All-SEC honors in both his junior and senior years, solidifying his reputation as one of the best linemen in college football.

  5. Team Captain: In his senior year, Collins was named a team captain, demonstrating his leadership qualities both on and off the field.

NFL Journey

La'El Collins' path to the NFL was unconventional, but his talent and determination eventually led him to success in the league.

  1. Undrafted: Despite his impressive college career, Collins went undrafted in the 2015 NFL Draft due to off-field concerns.

  2. Dallas Cowboys Signing: Collins signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent, a move that would prove to be a turning point in his career.

  3. Immediate Impact: Collins made an immediate impact with the Cowboys, earning a starting role on the offensive line as a rookie.

  4. Versatile Player: Known for his versatility, Collins has played both guard and tackle positions during his NFL career.

  5. Contract Extension: In 2019, Collins signed a five-year contract extension with the Cowboys, solidifying his place on the team.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond football, La'El Collins has a rich personal life and a variety of interests that make him a well-rounded individual.

  1. Community Involvement: Collins is actively involved in community service, often participating in events and initiatives to give back to his hometown of Baton Rouge.

  2. Mentorship: He takes pride in mentoring young athletes, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.

  3. Family Man: Collins is a devoted family man, often sharing moments with his loved ones on social media.

  4. Hobbies: In his free time, Collins enjoys fishing, a hobby that allows him to relax and unwind away from the football field.

  5. Fashion Sense: Known for his unique fashion sense, Collins often makes bold style statements, both on and off the field.

Achievements and Recognition

La'El Collins' hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades and recognition throughout his career.

  1. Pro Bowl Alternate: Collins was named a Pro Bowl alternate in 2019, highlighting his exceptional performance that season.

  2. Team Awards: He has received several team awards from the Cowboys, recognizing his contributions and leadership.

  3. NFL Honors: Collins has been honored by the NFL for his community service efforts, showcasing his commitment to making a positive impact.

  4. College Hall of Fame: In 2020, Collins was inducted into the LSU Athletic Hall of Fame, a testament to his outstanding college career.

  5. Respected Teammate: Known for his work ethic and positive attitude, Collins is highly respected by his teammates and coaches.

  6. Role Model: Collins serves as a role model for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that hard work, perseverance, and a strong support system can lead to success.

Final Word on La'El Collins

La'El Collins' journey from high school standout to NFL star is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication to football, combined with his resilience, has made him a key player for the Dallas Cowboys. From his early days at LSU to his current role in the NFL, Collins has consistently shown his talent and determination.

Whether it's his impressive blocking skills or his ability to overcome challenges, Collins embodies what it means to be a professional athlete. His story is a testament to hard work and perseverance. For fans and aspiring athletes alike, La'El Collins serves as a reminder that with enough grit and passion, you can achieve greatness.

So next time you watch a Cowboys game, keep an eye on number 71. You're witnessing a player who's not just good at football but also a symbol of dedication and hard work.

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