Last Updated on October 28, 2026 by Valentim Tereshkova
Laken Tomlinson is a Jamaican-American professional football offensive guard for the Green Bay Packers in the National Football League (NFL). Born on February 9, 1992, in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, Tomlinson moved to the United States during childhood and developed into an accomplished football player. Beyond his NFL career, Laken Tomlinson’s family has played an essential role in shaping his personal values, educational ambitions and professional achievements.
As of now, Laken Tomlinson is married to Rachel Tomlinson, a clinical psychology professional. The couple have two living daughters, including Taylor Rose Tomlinson, born in 2020. Their first daughter, Claire Abigail Tomlinson, tragically died in 2019, just 18 days after her birth. His parents are Audrey Wilson and Donovan, while his three siblings are Jehmaul, Juhvane and Chelsea. His upbringing in Jamaica and Chicago, particularly the influence of his mother and grandfather, helped shape his determination to succeed.
Laken Tomlinson’s Wife: Rachel Tomlinson
Laken Tomlinson’s wife is Rachel Tomlinson, formerly known as Rachel Roberts, a highly educated professional specializing in clinical psychology.
The couple have been married since approximately 2017, according to a September 2025 profile published by Sports Illustrated.
Rachel has maintained a relatively private personal life despite her husband’s lengthy career in professional football.
However, her educational achievements and professional background have occasionally attracted attention from major sports publications.
Both Rachel and Laken attended Duke University, where they developed interests in psychology and other academic disciplines.
Their shared appreciation for education and scientific research has remained an important part of their relationship.
Who Is Rachel Tomlinson?
Rachel Tomlinson is a clinical psychology professional who completed her undergraduate education at Duke University.
During her time at Duke, she studied biology and psychology, completing a double major.
She later pursued graduate studies at the University of Michigan, where she earned a master’s degree and continued toward a doctorate in clinical psychology.
In January 2020, the San Francisco Chronicle published a profile highlighting the academic achievements of the couple.
At the time, Rachel was approximately two years away from completing her doctoral studies.
During a September 2024 interview with the Seattle Seahawks, Laken confirmed that his wife had earned her PhD in clinical psychology.
Her professional interests have helped strengthen their shared commitment to mental health awareness and supporting people experiencing emotional difficulties.
How Did Laken Tomlinson Meet Rachel?
Laken Tomlinson and Rachel Roberts attended Duke University, where they pursued their undergraduate degrees.
Although their shared university background is publicly documented, the exact circumstances surrounding their first meeting have not been described in detail.
Both developed strong academic interests while studying at Duke.
Laken majored in evolutionary anthropology and psychology, while Rachel studied biology and psychology.
Their relationship continued as Laken entered the NFL following his selection by the Detroit Lions in 2015.
In January 2016, Tomlinson publicly referred to having a fiancée while preparing for a game against the Chicago Bears.
The couple subsequently married, with published reports placing their wedding around 2017.
Laken Tomlinson and Rachel’s Marriage
Laken and Rachel Tomlinson have built a marriage shaped by professional ambitions, parenthood and mutual support.
Although the exact wedding date and location have not been widely reported, their marriage was publicly confirmed during Laken’s years with the San Francisco 49ers.
In a 2018 interview with the San Francisco Chronicle, Laken credited his wife with supporting him during the difficult early stages of his NFL career.
The couple have also developed shared interests outside their professional work.
During a September 2024 interview with the Seattle Seahawks, Laken revealed that he and Rachel enjoy playing video games together.
He explained that they sometimes play Destiny 2 as a team, describing gaming as one of their favorite recreational activities.
Their relationship has also been strengthened by their shared commitment to family and mental health advocacy.
Laken Tomlinson’s Children: How Many Kids Does He Have?
Laken Tomlinson has had at least three daughters with his wife, Rachel. Their first child, Claire Abigail, died shortly after her birth in 2019. Their second daughter, Taylor Rose, was born in 2020.
During a September 2024 interview with the Seattle Seahawks, Tomlinson confirmed that he was raising two children. Contemporary reporting identified both as daughters.
Although the name and exact birth date of the couple’s younger living daughter have not been reliably established, the family has publicly acknowledged the importance of their children.
Claire Abigail Tomlinson: Laken Tomlinson’s First Daughter
Claire Abigail Tomlinson was the first daughter of Laken and Rachel Tomlinson.
She was born prematurely in 2019 following a scheduled cesarean delivery.
Tragically, Claire died just 18 days after her birth.
The loss deeply affected Laken and Rachel, who had been preparing to begin their journey into parenthood.
For several years, Tomlinson chose to keep the tragedy private while continuing his professional football career.
In August 2022, he spoke publicly about his daughter’s death during an emotional interview with The Associated Press.
He explained that Claire remained an important source of motivation whenever he stepped onto the football field.
Tomlinson also acknowledged that grieving the loss of a child was an experience that continued affecting him years later.
He chose not to disclose all the circumstances surrounding her death, asking that some aspects of the family’s experience remain private.
How Claire Abigail’s Death Affected Laken Tomlinson
The death of Claire Abigail had a profound impact on Laken Tomlinson’s personal life.
According to the Associated Press, he experienced intense grief while continuing to fulfill his responsibilities as an NFL player.
His wife, mother and other relatives became important sources of emotional support.
During the interview, Tomlinson explained that he regularly thought about Claire before football games.
Her memory encouraged him to appreciate his family and remain determined during difficult situations.
The experience also strengthened his commitment to mental health advocacy.
He has supported organizations that encourage conversations about grief, emotional well-being and the importance of seeking help.
Taylor Rose Tomlinson: Laken Tomlinson’s Daughter
Taylor Rose Tomlinson is the second daughter of Laken and Rachel Tomlinson.
She was born in 2020, approximately one year after the death of her older sister, Claire Abigail.
Her arrival brought happiness to the family following an extremely difficult period.
During his August 2022 interview with The Associated Press, Laken expressed his love for Taylor and discussed how much he enjoyed spending time with her.
At the time, Taylor was approximately two years old.
Tomlinson explained that he regularly communicated with Rachel and their daughter through video calls while playing for the New York Jets.
His wife and daughter remained in the San Francisco Bay Area during that period, requiring him to balance professional responsibilities with family life across different locations.
Despite the distance, he made regular communication with his family a priority.
Laken Tomlinson’s Younger Daughter
Laken and Rachel Tomlinson have another living daughter whose name and birth date have not been widely disclosed.
In April 2024, The News Tribune reported that Rachel and their two daughters remained in the San Francisco Bay Area while Laken completed his previous NFL commitments.
During a September 2024 Seattle Seahawks interview, Tomlinson also referred to having two children at home.
He explained that seeing his children’s faces after football games helped him maintain perspective on his professional responsibilities.
Although the couple have occasionally discussed their children, they generally prefer to maintain their privacy.
Laken Tomlinson’s Parents: Audrey Wilson and Donovan
Laken Tomlinson was born to Audrey Wilson and Donovan in Savanna-la-Mar, a coastal town in Jamaica’s Westmoreland Parish.
His parents played different roles in his childhood, with his mother eventually moving to the United States while his father remained in Jamaica.
The family’s migration to Chicago in 2003 transformed Laken’s educational opportunities and introduced him to American football.
Laken Tomlinson’s Mother: Audrey Wilson
Laken Tomlinson’s mother is Audrey Wilson, a Jamaican immigrant who moved to the United States with her four children in 2003.
Before leaving Jamaica, Audrey worked at a resort while raising her family.
She eventually decided to move to Chicago because her parents had already established themselves in the city.
The family settled in the Rogers Park neighborhood on Chicago’s North Side.
After arriving in the United States, Audrey pursued employment in home healthcare, caring for elderly people.
Her professional responsibilities required long hours, but she remained committed to ensuring that her children received a good education.
During interviews, Tomlinson has repeatedly credited his mother with encouraging him to remain disciplined and focused on academic achievement.
How Audrey Wilson Supported Her Son’s Education
Audrey played an important role in helping Laken adjust to life in the United States.
When the family arrived in Chicago, Tomlinson was unfamiliar with American football and many aspects of American culture.
His mother emphasized the importance of school and encouraged him to pursue opportunities that could improve his future.
At one point, Laken received an opportunity to participate in a mentoring program involving local attorney Robert Sperling.
Audrey initially expressed concerns about allowing her son to spend time with someone outside the family.
However, after discussions with school administrators, she eventually supported the arrangement.
The mentorship became an important part of Tomlinson’s academic and personal development.
Audrey also encouraged him to attend Lane Technical College Prep, despite the long daily journey required to reach the school.
Her emphasis on education contributed to his eventual enrollment at Duke University.
Audrey Wilson’s Influence on Laken’s NFL Career
Audrey remained one of Laken Tomlinson’s strongest supporters as he developed into an NFL prospect.
When the Detroit Lions selected him in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft, she attended the ceremony in Chicago.
The occasion represented the culmination of years of sacrifice following the family’s move from Jamaica.
Tomlinson has also discussed how much he appreciates his mother’s cooking, particularly traditional Jamaican dishes.
During a 2015 interview with NFL Media, he mentioned enjoying her jerk chicken, fried fish and brown-stew chicken when returning home.
Her influence continued throughout his professional career, including during the emotional period following the death of his first daughter.
Laken Tomlinson’s Father: Donovan
Laken Tomlinson’s father is Donovan, a Jamaican small-business owner who remained in his home country when Laken moved to Chicago.
His identity and occupation were documented in a December 2013 article published by DNAinfo Chicago.
At the time, Donovan operated a small business in Jamaica.
When Laken was approximately 11 years old, his mother relocated to the United States with the children, while Donovan stayed behind.
The separation meant that Laken spent much of his adolescence living away from his father.
However, he maintained connections with relatives in Jamaica throughout his educational and athletic development.
During the 2015 NFL Draft, Tomlinson mentioned that his father was still living in Jamaica and would likely follow the ceremony from there.
More recent verified information about Donovan’s personal life and occupation remains limited.
Laken Tomlinson’s Siblings: Meet His Two Brothers and Sister
Laken Tomlinson has three siblings: Jehmaul, Juhvane and Chelsea.
He is the second-oldest of Audrey Wilson’s four children, with Jehmaul being his older brother and Juhvane and Chelsea his younger siblings.
All four children moved from Jamaica to Chicago with their mother in 2003.
The siblings shared the challenges of adjusting to a new country, including changes in climate, education and cultural expectations.
Jehmaul: Laken Tomlinson’s Older Brother
Jehmaul is Laken Tomlinson’s oldest brother and an important member of his immediate family.
He grew up alongside Laken in Jamaica before moving to the United States.
According to an NFL Media interview published in April 2015, Jehmaul served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the NFL Draft.
Because of his military responsibilities, he could not attend the ceremony in Chicago.
However, he followed the event from Germany and supported his younger brother’s achievement.
Jehmaul also helped other family members complete their United States citizenship applications.
In March 2017, the Detroit Lions confirmed that he had already become an American citizen.
His involvement demonstrated the close relationship between the siblings and their shared commitment to supporting one another.
Juhvane: Laken Tomlinson’s Younger Brother
Juhvane is one of Laken Tomlinson’s younger siblings.
He moved to Chicago with his mother, brothers and sister in 2003.
During childhood, Juhvane experienced the same cultural adjustments that influenced his older brother’s development.
In February 2017, Juhvane became a naturalized United States citizen during a ceremony in Chicago.
His achievement was celebrated by the family, particularly Laken, who publicly expressed pride in his younger siblings.
The citizenship process represented another milestone in the family’s journey from Jamaica to the United States.
Although Juhvane’s relationship with Laken is well documented, details about his current occupation and personal life remain private.
Chelsea: Laken Tomlinson’s Younger Sister
Chelsea is Laken Tomlinson’s younger sister and the only daughter among the four siblings.
She moved from Jamaica to Chicago with her family during childhood.
Like her brothers, Chelsea attended school in the United States and gradually adapted to American culture.
On February 22, 2017, Chelsea and Juhvane became United States citizens.
The Detroit Lions published an article in March 2017 explaining how meaningful the achievement was to the entire family.
Laken celebrated their naturalization and described the moment as an important fulfillment of their grandparents’ ambitions.
Although Chelsea generally maintains a private life, her experience reflects the importance of education, immigration and family support in the Tomlinson family’s story.
Laken Tomlinson’s Grandfather: Ivan Wilson
One of the most influential figures in Laken Tomlinson’s life was his maternal grandfather, Ivan Wilson.
Ivan helped establish the family’s path from Jamaica to the United States.
During the 1980s, he moved to Chicago to pursue better economic opportunities and create a foundation for future generations.
His decision eventually allowed Audrey Wilson and her children to relocate to the United States.
According to a December 2014 Sports Illustrated profile, Ivan was also a boxer during his younger years.
His strength and determination became important parts of the family’s identity.
How Ivan Wilson’s Death Influenced Laken Tomlinson
Ivan Wilson died in Jamaica while Laken was attending high school in Chicago.
He had experienced serious medical complications associated with stomach ulcers.
Tomlinson had previously witnessed his grandfather receive treatment for similar complications in the United States.
However, when Ivan experienced another medical emergency during a visit to Jamaica, he did not survive.
The loss deeply affected Laken, who began researching differences between healthcare systems in Jamaica and the United States.
His interest in medicine eventually influenced his academic decisions.
He pursued premedical studies at Duke University and developed ambitions of becoming a doctor.
Tomlinson has also expressed a long-term dream of building a hospital in Jamaica to improve access to healthcare.
His grandfather’s memory therefore continues influencing both his academic interests and charitable ambitions.
Robert Sperling: Laken Tomlinson’s Mentor and Second Family
Another important person in Laken Tomlinson’s development was Robert Sperling, a Chicago attorney who became his mentor during middle school.
Sperling was involved in a youth mentoring program designed to help students develop academically and personally.
After meeting Tomlinson, he recognized his intelligence and determination.
The two developed a close relationship, with Sperling providing educational guidance and helping Tomlinson prepare for high school and college.
Tomlinson also spent time with Sperling’s family, including his wife Andrea and son Jared.
He developed a particularly close friendship with Jared, whom he later described as being like a brother.
Although the Sperlings are not his biological relatives, their involvement became an important part of his support system.
Tomlinson has repeatedly credited their assistance with helping him navigate educational opportunities in the United States.
Laken Tomlinson’s Childhood and Family Background
Laken Tomlinson was born in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, where he spent his early childhood playing cricket and soccer with neighborhood friends.
In 2003, he moved to Chicago with his mother and siblings.
Adapting to the city’s cold climate and unfamiliar culture was initially difficult.
However, Tomlinson remained committed to education and eventually attended Lane Technical College Prep.
His journey to school required traveling by train and bus for approximately one hour each morning.
Despite the demanding schedule, he maintained strong academic performance.
He also began participating in American football, gradually developing into a talented offensive lineman.
His combination of size, strength and academic ability attracted college recruiting attention.
Laken Tomlinson’s College Football Career at Duke
Laken Tomlinson attended Duke University, where he played college football from 2010 through 2014.
He became an important member of the Blue Devils’ offensive line and started 52 consecutive games during his playing career.
In 2014, he earned first-team All-ACC recognition and consensus All-America honors.
His performances also helped Duke establish itself as a competitive program under head coach David Cutcliffe.
Alongside football, Tomlinson studied evolutionary anthropology and psychology while completing premedical coursework.
His interest in medicine was inspired by the death of his grandfather in Jamaica.
He also shadowed medical professionals at Duke University Hospital, including neurosurgeon Carlos Bagley.
His achievements demonstrated his determination to succeed academically while developing a professional football career.
Laken Tomlinson’s NFL Career and Family Support
Laken Tomlinson entered the NFL when the Detroit Lions selected him in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft with the 28th overall pick.
His selection was particularly meaningful because the draft took place in Chicago, where his family had settled after leaving Jamaica.
After two seasons with Detroit, Tomlinson was traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 2017.
He subsequently developed into one of the team’s most reliable offensive linemen.
During his time in San Francisco, he appeared in Super Bowl LIV and earned his first Pro Bowl selection following the 2021 season.
He joined the New York Jets in 2022 before playing for the Seattle Seahawks in 2024 and Houston Texans in 2025.
Tomlinson later spent time with the Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys before joining the Green Bay Packers on September 28, 2026.
Throughout his professional career, he has credited his wife, children, mother and siblings with providing encouragement during difficult periods.
Laken Tomlinson’s Family Values and Mental Health Advocacy
Laken Tomlinson has been involved in initiatives promoting mental health awareness and emotional well-being.
His personal experiences, particularly the loss of his first daughter, have strengthened his appreciation for family support and access to mental health resources.
He has supported the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), an organization providing education, advocacy and assistance to people affected by mental health conditions.
During his September 2024 interview with the Seattle Seahawks, Tomlinson explained that both he and Rachel were interested in psychology and mental health.
Their shared educational background provided opportunities to work together on charitable causes.
He has also participated in community activities supporting young people and families.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laken Tomlinson’s Family
Who is Laken Tomlinson’s wife?
Laken Tomlinson is married to Rachel Tomlinson, formerly Rachel Roberts, a clinical psychology professional with a PhD from the University of Michigan.
Does Laken Tomlinson have a girlfriend?
No. As of now, Laken Tomlinson is married to Rachel Tomlinson. The couple have been married since approximately 2017.
When did Laken Tomlinson get married?
Laken Tomlinson and Rachel Roberts reportedly married in 2017, although their exact wedding date has not been widely documented.
How many children does Laken Tomlinson have?
Laken Tomlinson has had at least three daughters. His first daughter, Claire Abigail, died in 2019. His daughter Taylor Rose was born in 2020, and later reporting confirmed that he and Rachel were raising two daughters.
What happened to Laken Tomlinson’s first daughter?
His first daughter, Claire Abigail Tomlinson, was born prematurely in 2019 and died 18 days later. Tomlinson publicly discussed the loss in an August 2022 interview with The Associated Press.
Who is Taylor Rose Tomlinson?
Taylor Rose Tomlinson is Laken and Rachel Tomlinson’s second daughter, born in 2020.
Who are Laken Tomlinson’s parents?
Laken Tomlinson’s mother is Audrey Wilson, a Jamaican immigrant who worked in home healthcare in Chicago. His father is Donovan, a small-business owner who remained in Jamaica.
Who is Laken Tomlinson’s father?
Laken Tomlinson’s father is Donovan, who was identified as a Jamaican small-business owner in a 2013 DNAinfo Chicago profile.
Who is Laken Tomlinson’s mother?
Laken Tomlinson’s mother is Audrey Wilson, who moved from Jamaica to Chicago with her four children in 2003.
How many siblings does Laken Tomlinson have?
Laken Tomlinson has three siblings: an older brother named Jehmaul, a younger brother named Juhvane and a younger sister named Chelsea.
Who is Laken Tomlinson’s older brother?
His older brother is Jehmaul, who served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the 2015 NFL Draft.
Who is Laken Tomlinson’s younger brother?
His younger brother is Juhvane, who became a naturalized United States citizen in February 2017.
Who is Laken Tomlinson’s sister?
Laken Tomlinson’s younger sister is Chelsea, who also became a United States citizen in February 2017.
Who was Laken Tomlinson’s grandfather?
Laken Tomlinson’s maternal grandfather was Ivan Wilson, whose death in Jamaica inspired his interest in medicine and improving healthcare services.
Where is Laken Tomlinson’s family from?
Laken Tomlinson was born in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica. He moved to Chicago, Illinois, with his mother and siblings in 2003.
When was Laken Tomlinson born?
Laken Tomlinson was born on February 9, 1992, in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica.
Valentim Tereshkova is a sports journalist and NFL analyst specializing in team dynamics, scheme breakdowns, and league-wide trends. Covering everything from offseason roster construction and Draft developments to Sunday game plans and Super Bowl contenders, he delivers clear, sharp commentary on the gridiron. Valentim combines stat-driven analysis with a passion for football storytelling to give readers an expert look into the AFC and NFC.
