Who is Laila Thompson-Wainer? Biography, Career, and Relationship with NFL Star Tez Johnson

Laila Thompson-Wainer is a young professional in the sports marketing industry and the longtime partner of NFL wide receiver Tez Johnson. She is not only known for her relationship but also for her inspiring journey as a former athlete and now a career woman in professional sports. From playing football in high school to working with major franchises like the Seattle Seahawks and the Seattle Kraken, Laila has built a name for herself with talent, determination, and passion for sports.

This article explores her early life, education, sports journey, career, and her love story with Tez Johnson.

Who is Laila Thompson-Wainer? Early Life and Background

Laila grew up in an environment where sports were always part of her life. As a child, she participated in multiple activities, including soccer and dance. During her high school years, she was a member of the M-A Dance Team while also excelling on the soccer field.

In 2018, she made a bold decision that would define her athletic identity. She transitioned from soccer to football, joining the varsity team as a field kicker for the 2019–2020 season. At that time, she became the only female athlete on the varsity football team. This was a remarkable milestone, as very few women had ever represented M-A in football.

Laila’s courage to compete in a male-dominated sport highlighted her determination. Teammates supported her journey, recognizing her natural kicking ability that she had first developed while playing soccer.

Education

After completing high school, Laila enrolled at the University of Washington. She pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with minors in business and diversity.

Her education gave her a strong foundation in communication strategy, media studies, marketing, and community engagement. It also allowed her to connect her passion for sports with the business side of athletics.

Career in Sports Marketing

Laila Thompson-Wainer’s career path reflects her love for sports and her professional ambitions. After graduating, she began working in the field of sports marketing and fan engagement.

She has gained valuable experience with some of the biggest names in American sports:

• Seattle Seahawks (NFL): She worked in marketing and communications roles, focusing on fan experiences and outreach.

• Seattle Kraken (NHL): She contributed to entertainment, event planning, and brand engagement for hockey fans.

Her work has included marketing strategy, communication solutions, community outreach, and brand planning. Laila’s focus has always been on creating connections between teams and their fans, bringing excitement to game-day experiences and events.

Today, she continues to grow in the sports business industry, blending creativity with communication skills.

Relationship with Tez Johnson

How They Met

Laila met Tez Johnson while at the University of Oregon. At that time, Johnson was a rising football player, and Laila was completing her education in communication. They shared values, mutual respect, and a deep passion for sports, which made their bond strong.

Engagement

In March 2024, after showcasing his skills at the NFL Scouting Combine, Tez Johnson proposed to Laila. The proposal took place in a football training facility, making it symbolic and meaningful for both. A heartfelt photo from that moment was shared on Instagram, receiving love from friends, teammates, and family.

One of the warmest messages came from Izzy Nix, wife of quarterback Bo Nix, who publicly welcomed Laila into the extended football family.

Personal Life and Interests

Although she is no longer an active athlete, Laila remains connected to sports. She enjoys supporting Tez Johnson during his NFL journey and often attends games. She also maintains her own professional identity in the sports industry, balancing her career with her personal life.

Her story inspires many young women who want to pursue careers in male-dominated fields such as football and sports management.

FAQs About Laila Thompson-Wainer

1. Who is Laila Thompson-Wainer?

She is a sports marketing professional and the fiancée of NFL player Tez Johnson.

2. What is her educational qualification?

She graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Communication and minors in business and diversity.

3. Has she played sports?

Yes. She was a soccer player, dancer, and later a varsity football field kicker in high school.

4. What sports teams has she worked with?

She has worked with the Seattle Seahawks (NFL) and the Seattle Kraken (NHL).

5. When did she get engaged to Tez Johnson?

Tez Johnson proposed in March 2024 after the NFL Scouting Combine.