The Dallas Cowboys have brought veteran guard Laken Tomlinson onto their practice squad just before the 2026 NFL season kicks off. This decision comes as the team aims to address the absence of Pro Bowl left guard Tyler Smith, who will start the season on injured reserve.
Tomlinson, who was a first-round selection in the 2015 NFL Draft, has a wealth of experience, having played 173 games and started 162 with various teams, including the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, New York Jets, Seattle Seahawks, and Houston Texans. He was a starter for all 17 games with the Seahawks in the 2024 season under head coach Mike Macdonald.
After spending last season with the Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens, Tomlinson had not been signed by any NFL team since January 2025. His addition offers the Cowboys crucial depth as they prepare for their upcoming game against the New York Giants. While it remains uncertain if he will be activated for Week 1, backup interior lineman T.J.
Bass is anticipated to fill in for Smith during his recovery, which may take 4-6 weeks.
Tomlinson's accolades include a second-team All-Pro designation in 2023 and a Pro Bowl selection in 2021 while with the 49ers, enhancing the Cowboys' offensive line as they begin the season.
