Cowboys at Jets: Dallas offensive line severely compromised

According to an early morning report, the Dallas Cowboys will be without starting tackle La’el Collins and possibly fellow starter Tyron Smith.

Coming off a two-game losing skid, the Dallas Cowboys were hoping to get their winning groove back against the 0-4 New York Jets Sunday afternoon. But news released gameday morning will make that task more difficult as their offensive line could be without as many as two starters.

According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, the Cowboys will be without the services of starting right tackle La’el Collins. The 26-year old offensive lineman is having a Pro Bowl-worthy performance through the first half of his fifth NFL season, but Collins is dealing with a knee injury (MCL).

Collins was unable to practice all week and was officially listed as questionable for the Week Six contest against the Jets in New Jersey on the team’s final injury report. Now, he’s been ruled out entirely. It is believed either rookie Brandon Knight or veteran swing tackle Cameron Fleming will take Collins’ place in the starting lineup.

Dallas could also opt to shift starting left guard, second-year Connor Williams, to right tackle and play either of their veteran backups in Joe Looney or Xavier Su’a-Filo in his void. Both Looney and Su’a-Filo played significant snaps as starters for the Cowboys last season due to various injuries.

Complicating the offensive line issues in Dallas is the fact six-time All-Pro and Pro Bowl left tackle Tyron Smith is also considered questionable for the matchup. Smith did not practice at all this past week due to an ankle injury. According to Rapoport, the nine-year veteran only has a slight chance to play against the Jets Sunday afternoon.

The Dallas Cowboys offense will be severely compromised if both La’el Collins and Tyron Smith are sidelined. It will certainly be a long day for America’s Team if their backup offensive linemen aren’t up to the challenge.