NFLSep 26
Packers add veteran guard Laken Tomlinson amid offensive line struggles
Green Bay turns to the former Pro Bowl guard as injuries and protection problems put pressure on an already unsettled offensive front.
· 2 min read
On this page3 sections
Tomlinson arrives from Dallas
The Green Bay Packers have signed veteran guard Laken Tomlinson from the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad, adding experience to an offensive line that has struggled to establish stability. Tomlinson, 34, has not appeared in a game since Week 17 of last season. Selected by the Lions with the 28th pick in the 2015 draft, he has also played for the 49ers, Jets, Seahawks and Texans. He earned Pro Bowl recognition with San Francisco in 2021.
Injuries leave Green Bay searching
The Packers, now 1-2, have used different starters at left guard throughout their opening stretch. Aaron Banks, their preferred option at the position, has been limited to one appearance by toe and knee injuries. First-year starter Jacob Monk has also had difficulties at right guard. The problems extend beyond the interior. Starting right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 2, leaving Green Bay with another significant vacancy up front.
Protection and rushing production lag
Jordan Love has absorbed frequent contact behind the reshuffled line. The Vikings hit him 15 times in Week 1, while the Falcons delivered 12 hits in Thursday's defeat. Green Bay's pass block win rate stands at 16%, the lowest opening stretch recorded since tracking began in 2017. The running game has offered little relief: the Packers managed 17 rushing yards against Atlanta and are averaging a league-worst 48.7 rushing yards per game. Tomlinson's arrival gives Green Bay another veteran option as it works to improve both protection and rushing production.
Analysis, not a wagering instruction. Confirm every number on the sportsbook. 21+.
