The Dallas Cowboys have signed former Seattle Seahawks guard Laken Tomlinson to their practice squad as the team prepares for the 2026 NFL season opener. This move comes as the Cowboys look to fill the gap left by Pro Bowl left guard Tyler Smith, who will start the season on injured reserve.
Tomlinson, a first-round draft pick in 2015, has extensive experience in the NFL, having started 162 of the 173 games he has played for teams including the Lions, 49ers, Jets, Seahawks, and Texans. He was a starter for all 17 games at left guard for the Seahawks during the 2024 season under head coach Mike Macdonald.
Prior to joining the Cowboys, Tomlinson played for the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens but has not been on an NFL roster since the conclusion of the Ravens' 2025 season in January. His addition to the practice squad provides the Cowboys with a seasoned option as they navigate Smith's absence, which could last 4-6 weeks according to reports.
With current NFL practice squad rules, the Cowboys have the flexibility to promote Tomlinson to the active roster on game days, although it remains unclear if they will utilize this option for their upcoming game against the New York Giants.
Tomlinson began his career with the Detroit Lions and found success with the San Francisco 49ers, where he earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2021. He later spent two seasons with the New York Jets before moving to Seattle.
