Report: Joe Burrow instrumental in recruiting fellow LSU star to Cincinnati
La’el Collins is the latest former LSU Tigers‘ star to join the Cincinnati Bengals and according to a recent report, Joe Burrow — the Tigers’ QB who has seemingly been the catalyst behind revitalizing an organization where losing had become commonplace.
While the Bengals stunned the sports world by reaching the Super Bow last season largely due to an impressive young offensive-minded coaching staff, the instant connection between Burrow and his favorite LSU target Ja’Marr Chase, along with under-the-radar pieces on both sides of the ball.
The defense was good enough, but everyone in the league knew the offensive line was the one weak point which makes the addition of La’El Collins so important.
NFL Insider recently provided the details behind the bond between LSU alumni and how Burrow had the clout to sway an All-Pro left tackle to sure up the offense and protect his blind side.
“To punctuate the Bengals’ recruiting pitch, Joe Burrow had La’El Collins over to his house on Friday night, along with Ted Karras, Alex Cappa and Hayden Hurst, and their wives/girlfriends,” Albert Breer. That’s fantastic behind-the-scenes insight and proof that the former LSU star has solidified himself as not only a franchise QB, but a key member of the Bengals recruiting corps.
La’El Collins reveals epic story after joining Cincinnati Bengals
Last season, Joe Burrow carried the Cincinnati Bengals to the Super Bowl behind one of the worst offensive lines in NFL history. Not surprisingly, the franchise has made it a focus to upgrade their offensive line during the 2022 offseason. Recently signed OT La’el Collins had some epic first words for his new star quarterback.
According to Marisa Contipelli, the former LSU Tigers‘ star told Burrow, “Your new bodyguard is in town, no one’s touching you.”
Landing La’El Collins is massive for the Bengals since they had to beat out the Carolina Panthers and the New England Patriots for his services. Cincinnati still has a little bit of work to be done along the offensive line but acquiring Collins is definitely yet another step in the right direction. The Bengals still need to find a few more pieces for their offensive line, whether it’s in free agency or the upcoming NFL Draft.
According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Collins planned to leave Cincinnati for another free agent visit after the meeting, but the Bengals did not let him go. The deal marks the third offensive line shift the Bengals have made this offseason in an attempt to protect the future of their franchise.