The Dallas Cowboys have announced a position change for linebacker Marist Liufau as part of their plans to strengthen the edge rusher spot. This shift, confirmed by coach Brian Schottenheimer, comes as defensive coordinator Christian Parker implements a 3-4 defensive front, addressing the team’s urgent need on the edge.
Liufau’s Transition from Inside to Outside Linebacker
Coach Schottenheimer confirmed on Thursday that Liufau will move from middle linebacker to outside linebacker (OLB).
“Marist Liufau, we’re gonna move him to outside linebacker,”
Schottenheimer said.
“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.”
Originally a third-round pick from Notre Dame, Liufau has played primarily as a middle linebacker over his first two seasons, starting in 14 out of 34 games. During that time, he recorded 80 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 18 quarterback pressures across 720 snaps as noted by Pro Football Focus. Despite this, he fell behind on the depth chart last season, playing only 200 snaps under coach Matt Eberflus.
Challenges and Potential Benefits of the Position Change
Transitioning to an outside linebacker role presents challenges, especially in terms of pass-rushing responsibilities. However, it also offers Liufau an opportunity to address issues in run defense by serving as an early-down edge setter. This adaptability could provide both the linebacker and the Cowboys with greater flexibility in their defensive schemes under Parker during the 2026 season.
As a 6-foot-2, 239-pound athlete, Liufau will need to build additional mass to better withstand matchups against offensive tackles. Nonetheless, the Cowboys organization remains optimistic about his prospects. Schottenheimer stated,
“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.”
Implications for the Cowboys’ Roster and Defensive Strategy
This move reflects the Cowboys’ pressing need to reinforce the outside linebacker spot, especially with key players such as Jadeveon Clowney, Dante Fowler, Sam Williams, and Payton Turner all set to become free agents. While position changes are never guaranteed successes, this shift may offer Liufau a valuable pathway to secure a more significant role on the team under Parker’s direction.
