Marist Liufau is quickly becoming a name to watch in the world of professional football. The young linebacker, drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2024, is making a strong impression after transitioning from a standout career at Notre Dame. Born on February 9, 2001, in Kalihi, Hawaii, Liufau has all the right tools to succeed in the NFL, with a combination of speed, strength, and determination that have set him apart.
Having gained recognition as a standout defensive player at Notre Dame, he has continued to demonstrate his skills with the Cowboys. With a strong 2024 NFL Draft performance, Liufau is expected to contribute significantly to Dallas’ defensive line-up. This article will explore his journey from high school football in Hawaii to becoming a promising rookie with the Cowboys, including key stats, highlights, and challenges he’s faced along the way.
Key Takeaways
- Marist Liufau is a promising linebacker currently playing for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL, drafted in 2024 with the 87th overall pick.
- He played college football at Notre Dame, where he was a Butkus Award semifinalist in 2023 and showed impressive defensive stats.
- Liufau’s 40-yard dash time of 4.56 seconds at the 2024 NFL Combine highlighted his athleticism.
- At 23 years old, Liufau is building his career after overcoming a significant injury in 2021.
- His jersey number with the Dallas Cowboys is 35, and he plays a crucial role in the team’s defense.
Marist Liufau’s Early Life and Football Journey
Marist Liufau’s story begins in Kalihi, Hawaii, where he attended Punahou School. He was a standout player in both running back and linebacker positions, earning high school accolades that helped him secure a spot at Notre Dame. His talent on the field was clear from an early age, and this set the stage for what would become an impressive collegiate career.
At Notre Dame, Liufau quickly made a name for himself as a defensive powerhouse. By his senior year, he had developed into a key player on the team, earning recognition for his exceptional tackling and coverage skills. His dedication and performance throughout his college career led him to become a Butkus Award semifinalist in 2023, which is awarded annually to the best linebacker in college football.
Marist Liufau’s Career at Notre Dame
Liufau’s time at Notre Dame was marked by significant achievements. He played in 12 games during his final season in 2023, recording 44 tackles, six tackles for loss, and three sacks. His ability to read plays and make timely tackles made him one of the most reliable players on defense. However, his journey was not without challenges. He missed the entire 2021 season due to a serious injury but made a strong comeback in 2022 and 2023, showing resilience and determination.
In terms of accolades, Liufau’s standout 2023 season placed him on the radar of NFL scouts, and his potential was undeniable. His performance in the NFL Combine solidified his standing as one of the top linebacker prospects, and he was selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.
Dallas Cowboys – Marist Liufau’s New Chapter
Liufau’s NFL career officially began when the Dallas Cowboys drafted him with the 87th overall pick in 2024. The Cowboys were looking to strengthen their linebacker corps, and Liufau’s combination of speed, strength, and football IQ made him an ideal fit for their defensive needs. During his rookie season, Liufau is expected to compete for a starting spot, bringing fresh energy and skills to the Cowboys’ defense.
At 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 239 pounds, Liufau has the physical attributes that make him a formidable opponent on the field. His ability to cover both the run and pass, combined with his athleticism, will make him a key asset as he adjusts to the speed and intensity of the NFL. His 40-yard dash time of 4.56 seconds at the NFL Combine demonstrates his agility and explosiveness, vital traits for any linebacker in the league.
Key Stats and Highlights of Marist Liufau
Here are some key highlights from Marist Liufau’s career thus far:
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marist Liufau |
| Born | February 9, 2001, Kalihi, Hawaii |
| College | Notre Dame (2019–2023) |
| NFL Draft | Selected by Dallas Cowboys in the 3rd round, 87th overall (2024) |
| Position | Linebacker |
| NFL Jersey Number | 35 |
| 40-Yard Dash Time | 4.56 seconds |
| College Stats (2023) | 44 tackles, 6 TFLs, 3 sacks |
| Injury | Missed 2021 season due to injury |
Marist Liufau’s Role with the Dallas Cowboys
After joining the Dallas Cowboys, Marist Liufau is expected to quickly adapt to the NFL’s high level of competition. His role will evolve as he gains more experience in the league, but initially, he will be a key contributor on special teams and in rotation on defense. The Cowboys are hoping his ability to read the game and his relentless work ethic will pay off in big ways this season.
While the details of Liufau’s contract with the Cowboys have not been fully disclosed, as a third-round pick, he is expected to receive a standard rookie contract, which will likely include a combination of signing bonuses, base salary, and performance incentives.
Challenges and Overcoming Injuries
One of the key aspects of Marist Liufau’s career is his ability to overcome setbacks. After suffering an injury that forced him to miss the entire 2021 season, Liufau’s resilience became evident. He made a strong return to form in 2022, where he regained his spot as a top linebacker at Notre Dame. His journey is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his determination to prove himself.
Marist Liufau’s Future in the NFL
Looking ahead, Marist Liufau’s future in the NFL appears bright. With the Dallas Cowboys investing in him, he has a solid foundation to develop into one of the league’s top linebackers. His skills in both run defense and pass coverage make him a versatile player that will be a key asset in the Cowboys’ defensive lineup. The next few years will be crucial as Liufau adjusts to the NFL and continues to develop his skills.
FAQ
What is Marist Liufau’s background?
Marist Liufau was born on February 9, 2001, in Kalihi, Hawaii. He played high school football at Punahou School in Honolulu before moving on to a successful college career at Notre Dame.
What injury did Marist Liufau suffer during his college career?
Liufau missed the entire 2021 season due to an injury. However, he made a strong comeback in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, showcasing his resilience.
When was Marist Liufau drafted into the NFL?
Marist Liufau was drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys with the 87th overall pick.
What are Marist Liufau’s key stats from college?
In the 2023 season, Liufau recorded 44 tackles, six tackles for loss, and three sacks over 12 games at Notre Dame.
What is Marist Liufau’s 40-yard dash time?
Liufau recorded an official 40-yard dash time of 4.56 seconds at the 2024 NFL Combine, which highlighted his speed and athleticism.
What is Marist Liufau’s role with the Dallas Cowboys?
Liufau is a linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys and is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s defense in the 2024 season. His role is anticipated to grow as he gains more experience in the NFL.