Dallas Cowboys focus on the 53-man roster after preseason and training camp, with a 3 p.m. Tuesday deadline to lock in the opening-day squad. Sunday brought a notable move: La’el Collins is expected to be released as Dallas trims the roster while contending with injuries and evaluating depth along the offensive line.

The roster math also centers on the defensive line, as Dallas pieces together a numbers crunch that will determine who clears waivers, who lands on the practice squad, and how the DL rotation shapes the start of the season. Fantasy and betting angles hinge on which value players survive the cuts and how quickly depth charts solidify.

Dallas released Collins, opening a veteran swing-tackle option for Pittsburgh. The Steelers should pounce, using his depth behind Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu to stabilize protection and mentor the young line. Collins’ 32-year-old, 89-game resume offers a low-risk, high-reward path to 2025 roster continuity and a steadier run/pass game for Kenny Pickett.

Even in a limited role, his presence could unlock more consistent protections and two-way versatility, keeping the offense functional if Jones or Fautanu hit early growing pains. It’s a move aligned with Pittsburgh’s championship window, not a long-term cap drag.

In fantasy terms, the impact is indirect but notable for OL depth, run efficiency, and time to throw implications for Pickett and the Steelers’ overall attack.

Dallas will navigate cutdown day with two returnable IR slots to shield two injured players, freeing roster space for younger talent. Beyond that, the Cowboys may use handshake deals with veterans who aren’t claimed to re-add them after other moves, keeping the 53 flexible. Three veterans are highlighted as likely candidates for such a plan: Sanders, Collins and Thomas, each offering a path to balance immediate needs with future upside.

Sanders could be cut or bumped to the practice squad with a return scenario, potentially opening the door for rookie backs on the roster. Collins remains a versatile protection option to preserve Ajani Cornelius on the 53, while Thomas could anchor interior depth if rotation shifts. The approach lets Dallas protect two key youngsters on returnable IR while evaluating fits in real time, a move fantasy players should watch as Week 1 vs Philadelphia approaches.

La’el Collins returns to the Dallas Cowboys roster for the third time as they seek to bolster their offensive line amid injuries. The former LSU standout, who originally signed with the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2015, brings flexibility, having played multiple positions, including left guard and right tackle. After a tumultuous period with a drug suspension and injuries, Collins is lighter at 300 pounds and mentally prepared for this fresh start with Dallas.

Collins has an interesting backstory, including heroic fishing tales alongside Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott. His early life was shaped significantly by his mother’s strong work ethic and discipline, instilling invaluable life lessons. He also boasts a unique personal history, being an Eagle Scout, which reflects his dedication and character. As he rejoins the Cowboys, Collins aims to make a significant impact on the team's performance.