Laken Tomlinson, a first-round pick in 2015, has joined Dallas on the practice squad. The veteran has started 162 of the 173 games he’s played in for the Lions, 49ers, Jets, Seahawks, and Texans. With this move, Nick Leverett appears poised to join the 53-man roster, while Tyler Smith is on injured reserve with a designation to return. Smith, a durable cornerstone for Dallas, has earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections and has been a key component of an always improving offensive line.
Smith’s offseason injury changed the team’s plans. He reportedly reported trouble with his thumb to head coach Brian Schottenheimer but initially downplayed it before revealing that surgery would be necessary. The procedure is expected to sideline him for four to six weeks, and the timeline for his return remains uncertain.
Tomlinson’s arrival brings a wealth of experience to Dallas. Over an 11-year career, he has earned more than $58 million in total compensation. He spent the 2024 season with the Houston Texans, signing a one-year deal worth $4.25 million and appearing in 10 games. He subsequently spent time with the Baltimore Ravens, including a stint on the practice squad before signing with Dallas. His track record includes starting the majority of his games, providing a seasoned presence to help bridge the gap until Smith can return.
Drafted 28th overall by the Detroit Lions in 2015, Tomlinson began his career with the Lions, starting 24 games in two seasons before being traded to the San Francisco 49ers. He earned a Pro Bowl berth with the 49ers and remained a regular contributor through subsequent seasons with the Jets and Seahawks, including a 2024 campaign in Seattle.
Initially, head coach Brian Schottenheimer had considered T.J. Bass as a potential replacement for Smith, noting that Bass had shown flashes of strong play. Bass has started only a handful of games over his time with Dallas, so the addition of Tomlinson provides a more reliable option and depth at interior spots.
As the Cowboys prepare for their first matchup of the season, the new depth at guard and center should help them weather Smith’s absence. While Tomlinson adds immediate veteran presence, Dallas remains hopeful that Smith will return and reclaim his spot along the line within the anticipated four-to-six week window. In the meantime, the team can lean on Tomlinson’s extensive starting experience to sustain the line’s performance and protect Prescott as the offense seeks to execute at a high level.
Looking ahead to the season opener against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium, Dallas aims to blend Tomlinson’s versatility with the rest of the front five’s cohesion. If Smith returns as projected, the Cowboys’ offensive line could regain its full strength behind a unit that values depth and playoff-tested experience.
