Meeting the Dallas Cowboys 2024 draft class: Marist Liufau

The Cowboys continued their balanced 2024 draft class with their second selection of third round.

Feb 29, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Notre Dame linebacker Marist Liufau (LB19) works out during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Cowboys continued to make smart decisions when it came to positions of need in the 2024 NFL Draft. With their first selection of the third round, the Cowboys once again went with an addition to an offensive line unit seeking depth, with Kansas State's Cooper Beebe.

With their second selection of the round, the franchise decided to strengthen the linebacker unit.

Rd. 3:87 Marist Liufau

Marist Liufau is going to be a fan favorite.

His motor can’t be coached. pic.twitter.com/nVW7WHtnJD

— (Foots The King) (@FootsDaKing) April 27, 2024

In a perfect world, Leighton Vander Esch would be leading the Cowboys' linebacker unit, and all would be right in the world. Unfortunately, Vander Esch announced his retirement this year, as his neck issues would no longer allow him to be the player he was. With that news, the team needed to find a linebacker who would bring the intensity like Vander Esch.

That is where Notre Dame's Marist Liufau comes into play.

Liufau is the exact high-motor guy that any team would love to have on their defense. In his time with the Fighting Irish, Liufau racked up 117 total tackles.

Last season, Liufau also hit a career-high in sacks with 3. Having a linebacker that plays all over the field, as well as one that can also pressure the quarterback is the perfect recipe for success.