The Dallas Cowboys have built their reputation on drafting talent that transforms into elite players. Dallas has consistently found stars from Micah Parsons to Dak Prescott to CeeDee Lamb through the draft. Now, they have another gem developing from their 2024 class.
Why Is Marist Liufau the Cowboys’ Top Breakout Candidate?
Dallas drafted Notre Dame product Marist Liufau 87th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. The linebacker showed great potential as a rookie while the Cowboys’ linebacker room was plagued with injuries. PFSN has now named him the breakout candidate of the year for Dallas.
Liufau, a Hawaii native, wrapped up his college career at Notre Dame in 2023 after playing 39 games and earning a starting spot in 28. During his senior season, he was named a semifinalist for the Butkus Award and was recognized as Notre Dame’s Defensive Player of the Game in their matchup against Navy.
The linebacker finished his collegiate career with 117 total tackles. However, he took a big leap as a rookie with the Cowboys after getting consistent opportunities. PFSN analyst Brandon Austin predicts he will have a breakout season in Year 2 in the NFL and develop into a vital part of the Cowboys’ defense by the end of the year.
What Did Brandon Austin Say About Liufau’s Potential?
“Marist Liufau turned heads in Dallas as a rookie, quickly moving from a third-round pick out of Notre Dame to a key contributor on defense,” Austin wrote. “After starting the year with limited snaps, Liufau’s role expanded following injuries in the linebacker corps, and he capitalized.
“Liufau started nine games and finished with 50 tackles, four for loss, 1.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. His late-season surge was particularly impressive, racking up 24 tackles in the final four games.
“Liufau’s relentless energy and aggressive style have made him a standout in an unsettled linebacker group. While his approach can sometimes lead to over-pursuit, his upside is clear. With a strong finish to his rookie season and a likely starting spot in 2025, Liufau is well-positioned to take another leap and become a mainstay in the Cowboys’ defense.”
We will be here for the Marist Liufau breakout
pic.twitter.com/KTBPtVBMwH— FergSZN (@FergSZN) March 31, 2025
The numbers back up Austin’s assessment. Liufau’s two forced fumbles came in just 521 defensive snaps, while Eric Kendricks, who led the team in this category, took 920 snaps for three forced fumbles.
Meanwhile, Donovan Wilson also contributed two forced fumbles in 1,010 defensive snaps, solidifying Liufau’s role as a starter in 2025.
Despite the Cowboys signing Jack Sanborn and Kenneth Murray this offseason to bolster the linebacker room, Liufau’s football IQ and playmaking skills were on full display in 2024 and will likely tip the balance in his favor.
Additionally, he can play anywhere on the line, and when DeMarvion Overshown returns from injury, Dallas would have a lethal tandem in their defense.
