Packers bolster line with veteran guard Laken Tomlinson from Dallas

Green Bay announced the addition of guard Laken Tomlinson to its roster, taking him from the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad, ESPN reported. The move gives the Packers a seasoned interior lineman who can step in if injuries arise along the offensive line.

Tomlinson, a 30‑year‑old veteran, spent the bulk of his career with the San Francisco 49ers before joining Dallas in 2023. Over eight seasons, he logged more than 100 starts and earned a reputation for reliable run blocking. His experience is expected to help a Packers unit that has struggled with consistency, especially after injuries to starters in recent weeks.

The signing follows a spate of offensive line moves by Green Bay in the offseason and early regular season. The team entered training camp with several unproven backups, prompting head coach Matt LaFleur to look for a proven depth piece. By pulling Tomlinson from Dallas’ practice squad, the Packers avoid a salary‑cap hit while adding a player familiar with multiple blocking schemes.

Practice‑squad contracts allow teams to sign players at any time, provided they add them to the 53‑man roster. This flexibility is often used by clubs dealing with injuries or seeking veteran guidance for younger players. Tomlinson’s transition to Green Bay is typical of how teams shore up line depth mid‑season without sacrificing cap space.

Historically, the Packers have relied on a core of home‑grown linemen, but the past two seasons have highlighted the volatility of that approach. Adding a player like Tomlinson offers both immediate depth and a mentor for emerging talent such as rookie guard John Michael Schmitz. If the Packers’ offensive line can stay healthy, the veteran’s presence could be a stabilizing factor as the team pushes for a playoff berth.

The move underscores Green Bay’s broader strategy of blending youth with seasoned veterans to remain competitive in a division that features strong defensive fronts. With the regular season entering its third month, the Packers hope Tomlinson’s experience will translate into more consistent protection for quarterback Jordan Love.