A third-round pick out of Notre Dame, Liufau started 14 of 34 games over two seasons at center in Dallas. In 720 snaps over the two campaigns, he produced 80 tackles, 2.5 sacks and 18 QB pressures, per Pro Football Focus. He was buried on the depth chart under Matt Eberflus and played just 200 snaps last season.
Switching positions will be a challenge from a run standpoint, but he could help solve some of the run problems as an early down OLB that can set the edge against the run. Parker’s edge versatility could give both Liuafu and the Cowboys more options in 2026.
For the 6-foot-2, 239-pound linebacker, it won’t be a seamless transition. He will have to improve in the coming months to avoid getting smacked by offensive tackles. However, the Cowboys believe the 25-year-old could thrive on the move.
“[We feel he’ll be] good,” Schottenheimer said. “He doesn’t have a lot of muscle, but he has the strength to knock guys back. And again, the length is what just jumps off the picture. He’s excited about it. We’ve talked to Marist about it. He was excited. He can eat a little bit more to put some weight back on.”
A change of position is easier said than done. What sounds good in February and March doesn’t always pan out in August and September. However, moving Liufau highlights the Cowboys’ desperate need for outside linebacker, with Jadeveon Clowney, Dante Fowler, Sam Williams and Payton Turner all free agents. A change in position could give Liufau a way to make the lineup and have a role under Parker.