Marist Liufau, an outside linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, is expected to miss several weeks due to a fractured forearm and will undergo surgery as early as Monday, according to head coach Brian Schottenheimer. The injury occurred during Friday's preseason game against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter while Liufau was making a tackle.
Schottenheimer expressed confidence in Liufau's competitive spirit, stating, "What a great competitor. He'll be back." Liufau, who was drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft from Notre Dame, has participated in all 34 games over the past two seasons with the Cowboys.
Entering his third year with the team, Liufau transitioned from inside linebacker to outside linebacker under the new scheme designed by Christian Parker. He acknowledged the challenges of this change but expressed gratitude for the support from his teammates and coaches.
Last season, Liufau's role on special teams increased significantly, with his snap count rising from 35% in his rookie year to 75% (361 snaps) in 2025, although his defensive snaps decreased. He emphasized the importance of special teams in securing a roster spot, quoting teammate PJ Locke: "Special teams is all art and effort."
Schottenheimer noted the impact of losing Liufau, describing him as a vital player across all four special teams units. He mentioned the need for the team to adapt their roster strategy in light of Liufau's injury, as NFL teams can designate up to two players for return after missing at least four weeks of the season.
