The Cincinnati Bengals have released veteran offensive tackle La’el Collins, announcing the move on Tuesday. This was an expected development since Collins was placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list back in late August.
Collins suffered a torn ACL in December and isn’t expected to be in game shape for at least four more weeks. By releasing him, the Bengals saved around $7.4 million in a salary cap.
Collins joined the Bengals on a three-year, $21 million contract ahead of the 2022 season. He started 15 games at right tackle last year before suffering a torn ACL and MCL in a Week 16 matchup against the New England Patriots. The 30-year-old player previously spent seven years with the Dallas Cowboys.
The Bengals were able to let Collins go because they have 2019’s first-round pick Jonah Williams covering the right tackle position. Williams primarily played left tackle since entering the NFL but was moved to the right side of the offensive line after Cincinnati signed Pro Bowler Orlando Brown Jr.
Collins, on the other hand, will likely be able to land a job with another NFL team when he recovers from his ACL injury. Teams with playoff aspirations value offensive line depth, and Collins will be an ideal candidate as a free agent.
