The Cincinnati Bengals have been hard at work this offseason signing talented offensive lineman in order to better protect Joe Burrow. The team struck a deal with La'el Collins on Sunday, bringing the former Cowboys OT to Cincinnati. After signing his new deal, Collins left a message for Burrow that will have the quarterback and the entire Bengals' fanbase fired up for the 2022 season. Via Marisa Contipelli, Collins told Burrow, “Your new bodyguard is in town, no one's touching you.”

Welp, those comments officially make Collins the most popular man in Cincinnati. As was evident throughout the Bengals' playoff run, the offensive line is a clear weakness on the team. Cincinnati made addressing that a priority this offseason, inking deals with Ted Karras and Alex Cappa to buff up the o-line, and now getting a three-year deal done with Collins to further fortify the unit.

Considering Burrow spent much of the playoffs weaving his way out of a collapsing pocket, these additions will certainly sit well with him, and he'll be ecstatic after hearing Collins' initial comments upon joining up with the team.

Somewhere in Ohio, Burrow is smiling ear-to-ear as he's watching the Bengals' offseason unfold. After falling just short of a Super Bowl victory in this season, the Bengals' front office is doing everything in its power to give Burrow the tools he needs to succeed in the playoffs. That all starts with the work up front, so Collins was a great pickup.

He's made quite the impression on Bengals fans with his introductory comments to the franchise, and now it's time for him to back up those words on the field.