Marist Liufau is preparing for a significant shift as he enters his third NFL season with the Dallas Cowboys in 2026. After being selected in the third round out of Notre Dame in 2024 and serving as the key signal-caller for Mike Zimmer’s defense as a rookie, Liufau faced a disappointing second year. This change comes as the team aims to reinvigorate his career by moving him to a new position on the field.
Liufau’s struggles last season were largely attributed to a disconnect with former defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, who favored linebacker reps for Jack Sanborn and Kenneth Murray, even while DeMarvion Overshown was sidelined on injured reserve. This limited Liufau’s opportunities to contribute effectively on defense.
Transition from Inside to Outside Linebacker Confirmed by Coaching Staff
Dallas head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced at the 2026 NFL Combine that Liufau will be shifted from inside linebacker to outside linebacker, a move designed to capitalize on his physical traits. Schottenheimer highlighted Liufau’s long arms and ability to disrupt plays as ideal qualities for the edge linebacker role.
“Marist Liufau, we’re gonna move him to outside linebacker,”
Schottenheimer stated.
“That kind of fits his strengths, right? He’s got length, he’s got long arms and he’s really good at disrupting the ball.”
This pivot marks a notable departure for Liufau, who earned acclaim as one of the country’s top inside linebackers during his college career at Notre Dame. The Cowboys’ recent decision to waive inside linebacker Logan Wilson suggests they are reshaping their linebacker corps, with younger players like Justin Barron and Shemar James positioned to take on larger roles alongside DeMarvion Overshown.
Physical Preparation and Development Ahead of Position Switch
To handle the demands of playing on the edge, Liufau will need to increase his body mass from his current 239 pounds by roughly 10 pounds. This added bulk is expected to improve his durability against powerful offensive linemen and maintain his effectiveness against the physical toll of the position. The player, affectionately nicknamed “Hawaiian Punch” for his knack for forcing fumbles with hard hits, is already collaborating with coaches to enhance his strength and conditioning.
Schottenheimer commented on Liufau’s adjustment process, expressing confidence despite some limitations in quickness.
“He doesn’t have the great twitch, but he’s got the strength to knock guys back. And, again, the length is what just jumps off the film. He’s excited about it.”
“We’ve talked to Marist about it. He was excited. He can eat a little bit more to get his weight back up a little bit.”
Christian Parker, the Cowboys’ newly appointed linebacker coach, along with Schottenheimer and Liufau, are already planning for this transition well before the team’s offseason program begins on April 20.
Financial Incentives and Future Potential with the Cowboys
Liufau’s move to edge defender is also financially strategic, as outside linebackers typically command higher salaries than their inside counterparts in the NFL. By excelling in this new role, he could significantly increase his earning potential.
Joining forces with Donovan Ezeiruaku, a former second-round pick from 2025, Liufau and the Cowboys aim to establish a formidable young pass-rushing duo. The team is expected to supplement this pairing with additional talent through future free agency moves and the 2026 NFL Draft.
The impact of Christian Parker’s influence on the Dallas defense is already evident, signaling a new direction for the linebacker position and the overall pass rush strategy.
