In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected Notre Dame Linebacker Marist Liufau in the third round as the 87th overall pick. This decision got a bit cloudy at the last minute, as the Cowboys had trade-down offers in hand from other teams. The Cowboys decided to stick with their choice of Liufau, believing he is the right player for their needs. His performance at Notre Dame and the Senior Bowl, as well as his impressive showing at the scouting combine, Notre Dame’s Pro Day, and a visit to the Cowboys’ facilities, solidified their decision. The Cowboys’ Head Coach Mike McCarthy attended Notre Dame’s Pro Day where Liufau certainly caught his eye.

Surprising 3rd Round Pick

Most draft “experts” projected the Dallas Cowboys to draft a running back in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The Cowboys made a trade early, using the extra pick on offensive lineman Cooper Beebe. Then the Cowboys turned a lot of heads when they took Notre Dame linebacker Marist Liufau 87th overall. What was surprising to most, was just part of the plan for Dallas. Liufau was their guy all along.

Marist Liufau’s Journey to the NFL

Born on February 9, 2001, in Kalihi, Hawaii, Liufau’s journey to professional football starting on an island. Liufau’s football career began at Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawaii. His remarkable performance as a high school player earned him a place in the 2019 Polynesian Bowl. Following his high school achievements, Liufau committed to the University of Notre Dame, where he continued his academic and football career with the Irish. It’s also interesting to note that Liufau and Rams’ phenom wide receiver Puka Nucua are cousins.

Collegiate Career at Notre Dame

During his time at Notre Dame, Liufau’s skills and determination were evident. He became a defensive leader and example for the underclassman. Despite missing the 2021 season due to a serious ankle injury, Liufau returned with a vengeance in 2022, starting all 13 games and recording 51 tackles and an interception. His final season with the Fighting Irish saw him start all 12 games he played in, accumulating 44 tackles and three sacks.

The Low-Down on Liufau

Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 239 pounds, Liufau brings a strong presence to the field. His versatility and experience playing multiple linebacker spots in college give him a unique advantage. His instincts and coverage skills are highly regarded. In fact, he has not allowed a touchdown in coverage since 2022, showcasing his defensive prowess.

Cowboys Linebacker Room

Dallas gets an aggressive linebacker in Liufau that patrols sideline to sideline with very violent intentions. He comes with 4.64 speed, a quick first step, he can shed blocks well, and he’s great at making plays in space. Liufau’s ability to dissect plays and attack downhill make him a nice fit for new Defensive Coordinator Mike Zimmer and a potential building block for Zimmer at linebacker. Liufau joins a returning DeMarvion Overshown, returning Damone Clark, newly acquired Eric Kendricks, and Damien Wilson coming back for a second stint with Dallas. Liufau has the opportunity to learn from players with a lot of experience and not have so much of the pressure on him to come in and be a starter right away. Linebackers coach Scott McCurley mentioned that Liufau has the potential to be a middle linebacker as some point, but he’ll likely play on the strong side to kick things off in his development.

Rookie Camp Quote

As the rookies shuffled into Cowboy’s mini-camp last week Liufau spoke to the press and had this to say;

“First of all, that I’m here to work. I’m someone my peers can rely on, coaches can rely on, and that I’m ready to do what it takes to win.”

Liufau’s Future with the Cowboys

The Cowboys have the right coach in the building in Zimmer who loves his linebackers. Zimmer is big reason why Pro Bowler Eric Kendricks ended up signing with Dallas. DC Mike Zimmer certainly had an influence on picking Liufau, a player that fits his defensive scheme. He will be able to compete for a chance to work his way onto the field this season. Cowboys Nation will be hoping he can help become a dominate force in the middle for years to come.

Reggie Sanderson aka “Cowboy Regg”

Cowboys and Notre Dame football writer for WeLikeSportz.

Co-host of the “Sons of the Star” Podcast.

Follow him on X @ Cowboy_Regg

Photo Credit; UHND.com, Dallas Cowboys, NCSA, Irish Sports Daily,

***Are you interested in sports betting? If so make sure to use our promo code below where you can get your deposit matched (up to $1000), use promo code Sportz***

***Have you tried Dubby?? Are you looking for a Pre-Workout??
Use our promo code : WeLikeSportz for 10% off!