The Dallas Cowboys haven\u2019t gotten a lot out of their draft picks in recent years, and that includes Marist Liufau. A third-round pick in the 2024 draft, Liufau has played in all 34 games in his first two years in the NFL but has just 80 total tackles, five tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks to show for it.<\/p>\n
While availability is always a great thing to have, the Cowboys are hoping for more production. Part of that process is by moving Liufau to outside linebacker<\/a> in the 3-4 scheme that new defensive coordinator Christian Parker is bringing over from the Philadelphia Eagles.<\/a> But the Cowboys have also spoken volumes about Liufau with some of the moves they\u2019ve made this offseason.<\/p>\n With Rashawn Gary and second-year edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku currently in starting roles, Liufau has a lot of work to do and the NFL draft could be the moment that changes Liufau\u2019s outlook and accelerates the end of his time in Dallas.<\/p>\n Cowboys\u2019 Draft Plans Could Create Major Problem for Marist Liufau<\/p>\n The Cowboys have been busy overhauling their pass rusher room this offseason, and Liufau\u2019s move to the outside isn\u2019t the only notable move. Gary is expected to solve some of the problems as a player who got consistent pressure with the Green Bay Packers. But his ability to finish plays could open the door for Liufau if he makes a smooth transition.<\/p>\n James Houston is also ahead of Liufau on the depth chart and should have the inside track due to his experience, which includes a sack total (5.0) that was the second-highest on the team last year.<\/p>\n But the final hurdle for Liufau to clear is competition from the Cowboys, which could add in the draft. The Cowboys have two first-round picks thanks to the Micah Parsons trade, and while there are more pressing needs, including cornerback and linebacker, they could easily take an edge rusher if Rueben Bain falls to the 12th overall pick or choose from Miami\u2019s Akheem Mesidor, Auburn\u2019s Keldric Faulk or Clemson\u2019s T.J. Parker if they stick and pick with the 20th overall selection.<\/p>\n While it\u2019s not a deep pass rusher class in terms of high-end talent, there are more capable players available in the second round, with 11 edge rushers ranked in the top 60 of the consensus big board at NFL Mock Draft Database.<\/a> The Cowboys do not have a second-round pick, but they could get one as part of a package for trading down, which could get Liufau competition to enter training camp.<\/p>\n