The Dallas Cowboys’ offensive line might not be at full strength for their season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Unfortunately, offensive tackle La’el Collins is still dealing with a neck injury.
Collins was injured in his shoulder and missed practice in August. After recovering from his shoulder injury, Collins was able to return to practice. He then missed a few more sessions due to a stinger problem.
Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy initially said that Collins’ injury was not a serious concern. Now, it appears that Collins is not ready to compete.
McCarthy said to reporters that LC was dealing with a neck problem right now. “We are in a holding mode. He won’t practice today.”
Mike McCarthy said Cowboys RT La’el Collins (neck) won’t practice today. “We’re in a holding pattern.”
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) September 3, 2021
The Cowboys are uncertain about Collins’ status for Week 1. Therefore, the coaching staff will let Terence Steele and Ty Nsekhe practice.
“We’ll work together with Ty and Terrance. We’ll be ready to go with both those guys,” McCarthy said, via ProFootballTalk. “Ty, clearly with his career status, I think he has done a great job with us all through camp. He’ll get more comfortable doing what we ask him to do, I think. He is a solid member of the camp.
Steele played in 14 games last season for Dallas. He knows exactly what McCarthy and his staff want from their offensive tackles.
Not having Collins for Week 1 would really sting, but at least the Cowboys should have a fully healthy Tyron Smith on the field next Thursday.