The Buffalo Bills bolstered their offensive line this offseason by signing La’El Collins, adding both depth and experience. However, following some difficulties during training camp, Collins might be at risk of not making the final roster. According to Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic, Collins is currently on the roster bubble and will be competing with 21 other players for five available spots on the team’s 53-man roster.
Buscaglia mentioned that Collins seemed secure in his spot on the team’s final roster due to the substantial financial commitment made when signing him this offseason. However, his performance during training camp has been disappointing, making him at risk of being cut later this month.
“This might come as a surprise given his name recognition, veteran experience, and guaranteed $1.5 million,” Buscaglia wrote. “But Collins hasn’t been the versatile backup the team likely expected. His difficulties dealing with speed at offensive tackle and his limited effectiveness at guard have been significant concerns.”
Buscaglia noted that Collins is at a disadvantage compared to some of the more versatile linemen vying for a roster spot. With the departure of veteran center Mitch Morse, there’s a gap in the middle of the line, but Collins is not among those being considered to provide depth behind projected starter Connor McGovern.
“With younger and more versatile players in the mix, cutting Collins is definitely a possibility,” Buscaglia wrote. “However, none of the other likely roster candidates have any experience, which could work in his favor.”
Another veteran lineman, Will Clapp, is also facing uncertainty regarding his place on the roster. Like Collins, Clapp has guaranteed money ($287,500) and starting experience but had a tough season last year as a near-regular starter. Nevertheless, his ability to play both center and guard could strengthen his case.
Clapp’s chance to make the final roster may be jeopardized by his current concussion protocol, which puts his availability for the preseason finale on August 24 in question.
Despite the injury concerns, Bills head coach Sean McDermott mentioned that most injured players, except linebacker Matt Milano, should be ready for the season opener.
“There’s no one, other than Matt Milano, that we can definitely rule out for Week 1 at this point,” McDermott said on the team’s official website.
McDermott also stated that the team’s starters will be rested for the upcoming preseason game against the Carolina Panthers, but he wants to see strong performances from those competing for roster spots.
“It’s important for us to stay sharp and focused on making progress. I’ve seen some of that this week, and we need to keep it up next week,” he added.
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