Future Baller: The Louisianimal of LSU – La’el Collins : by @niksofly

I can quote you pretty much any stat of an established notable player in the NFL, but what I like doing most is discussing the phenoms of the next draft class.  It is something about raw athleticism, untainted humility and impeccable stats that intrigue me.  As a previous resident of the boot, I have made my way to Death Valley a few times in my collegiate career. It is something about driving down  Dalrymple Dr. and witnessing the majestic plantation homes overlooking University Lake housing the campus’ Greek Life. It subconsciously prepares you for a LSU game.  This is where I witnessed Early Doucet delivering magic, met Terrence Toliver on the way to the Manning Camp at Nicholls State, cringed  when a LSU giant  broke the leg of the punt returner from my alma mater. It is where Tyrann Mathieu showed out and Odell Beckham Jr. declared himself for the draft. This is where Les Miles and his hunger for greatness control the reigns of those one hundred yards. It is home to the 6’5 inch, 321lb Offensive Tackle-La’el Collins. Boasting the number 70, Collins embodies the aggression Death Valley requires.

I met  Collins on a Friday in the beginning of this past summer.  We were at Post Oak Motor Cars. I had my eyes on a black jewel with exposed red break pads as he studied the beauty of the Ghost with his aunt and uncle, whom were both lovely individuals. We made small talk as we all discussed his future in the NFL and my upcoming graduation. It was then that I noticed his humility. Collins is different. He is not arrogant as a player with his talent might be. He is reserved and surprisingly meek in demeanor.  Collins isn’t your ordinary Offensive Tackle. The Louisianimal is a standout amongst his peers. He has been named to the Lombardi Award Watch List, played 32 games with 25 starts (excluding the addition of games this season), and was CBSSPorts.com Freshman All-American in 2011 in conjunction with a lengthy list of prestigious accolades stemming back to his high school career where ESPN ranked him No. 8 out of 150 candidates. He is a premiere player.

Collins didn’t declare himself for the 2014 Draft Class although he was projected to be an early pick in the draft. He opted to return and finish his senior year. Critics feel he left money on the table. I believe it only adds to his stock. If a guy with his talent is gifted enough to enter the draft early, staying only improves his abilities. Think of wine. It gets better with time. Collins is like a Cabernet Sauvignon. Full bodied and robust. It can be the star of the show or a great accomplice to the main entrée. Take Collins’ large upper body and hands with quick feet and you have the make of a beasty offensive player that will dominate on the field and apply considerable pressure to the defense. Like a Cabernet Sauvignon, Collins can compensate for a flaw or two caused by another OL. His extensive arm span maintains the arc (NFL Scout) while his powerful lower body provided the momentum that has helped him garner 134 knockdown blocks. Having a 40 of 5.12 with the ability to be as low as 4.96, it is no wonder why all eyes have been on Collins. Currently he ranks 3rd out of 136 tackles. He is a great addition to any team and with the poise he possess, a leadership role can be be expected.  I know with the way my Texans Offensive Line has been looking, I would love to see him on the squad. Houston needs him.  Get acquainted with La’el Collins. And ladies, don’t say I didn’t bless you with a great prospect.

-Niko Rose