The Dallas Cowboys have signed Laken Tomlinson, a veteran guard with 173 career games, to their practice squad just ahead of the 2026 NFL season. This addition comes as the Cowboys seek to address the absence of Pro Bowl left guard Tyler Smith, who is starting the season on injured reserve.
Tomlinson, a first-round draft pick in 2015, has a wealth of experience, having started 162 games with teams such as the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, New York Jets, Seattle Seahawks, and Houston Texans. He played all 17 games for the Seahawks in the 2024 season under head coach Mike Macdonald.
After spending last season with the Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens, Tomlinson had been without a team since January 2025. His signing provides the Cowboys with crucial depth as they prepare for their season opener against the New York Giants in four days.
While it remains uncertain if he will be promoted to the active roster for Week 1, he could be utilized on game days due to current practice squad regulations. In the meantime, T.J. Bass is expected to fill in for Smith during his recovery, which may take 4-6 weeks, according to reports.
Tomlinson's accolades include being named a second-team All-Pro in 2023 and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2021 while with the 49ers. His experience is expected to be valuable for the Cowboys as they navigate the early part of the season.
