Cowboys Could Dump Veteran Starter In Roster Move Nobody Saw Coming
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
The Dallas Cowboys have some tough roster cuts to make before the August 30 deadline, and one surprising name has entered the conversation. Linebacker Marist Liufau could find himself fighting for a roster spot, even after playing a crucial role over his first two seasons.
Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton recently named Liufau as Dallas’ top candidate to get cut ahead of the 2026 season. Moton noted that a position switch and an awkward fit in new defensive coordinator Christian Parker’s scheme could be the main reasons he gets left off the team.
Dallas took Liufau in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Over his first two years, he played in 34 games and started 14. He is still on his four-year, $5.6 million rookie deal that runs through 2027.
Position Questions Could Shape Liufau’s Future
Liufau delivered his best season in 2024. He recorded 50 tackles, four tackles for loss, three pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and two quarterback hits. Those numbers helped him earn a larger role on defense.
Still, Parker appears to have different plans for the versatile defender.
DallasCowboys.com reporter Patrik Walker described Liufau’s usage during training camp on July 30. Walker wrote on X, “Christian Parker is doing some things with Marist Liufau. I just saw Liufau start off-ball, drop down to OLB and then back to off-ball centerfield, all in one rep.”
Walker added, “Liufau was directing traffic post-snap, in real time, as well.”
Christian Parker is doing some things with Marist Liufau. I just saw Liufau start off-ball, drop down to OLB and then back to off-ball centerfield, all in one rep.
Liufau was directing traffic post-snap, in real time, as well. #Cowboys #trainingcamp
— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) July 30, 2026
Parker has made it clear that flexibility will define his defense. In February, he said, “The first thing is we’re going to be multiple.” Parker explained that his defense will shift between several fronts and coverages based on personnel and situations.
That approach could benefit versatile players. It could also create challenges for players without a clear position.
Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer recently acknowledged that the coaching staff continues to evaluate Liufau’s role.
“I love Marist’s versatility,” Schottenheimer said. “Unfortunately for Marist, I mean, that is what it is. What spot are you playing? Well, you’re a linebacker.”
Schottenheimer had plenty of good things to say about Liufau’s ability and his knack for creating turnovers, but his words still made it clear that the linebacker’s future with the team is up in the air.
With final roster cuts right around the corner, Liufau is definitely one of the most interesting players to watch in Dallas.
