LOOK: Every snap from Cowboys rookie LB Marist Liufau (Notre Dame) pro debut

When the Dallas Cowboys traded back in the first round and acquired another third-round selection, draftniks everywhere rejoiced. Dallas didn’t do much in free agency, so grabbing a fourth top-100 prospect was paramount to many fans who still pay close attention in the offseason.

Both the later first and the new third-round pick were used on offensive linemen and the pick sandwiched in between went to defensive end. Those two position groups were where free agency defections happened. It was the final top 100 pick where there was a true conversation to which direction Dallas would take things. Dallas chose to go with Notre Dame linebacker Marist Liufau.

Liufau was selected over running back, seen as a need if the Cowboys wanted a premiere player to replace Tony Pollard who also left in free agency. Replacing Leighton Vander Esch, who retired due to injury, won out for the Dallas front office.

Reports throughout the offseason have indicated Dallas is pleased with their selection. Thanks to their biggest free agent signing (Eric Kendricks) allowing third-year man Damone Clark to no longer be in charge of the group, and return from injury of last year’s third-round pick DeMarvion Overshown, Liufau rounds out what now could be a strength of the defense.

That’s an amazing turnaround considering the state of the unit in January. But Liufau, like all the rest, will have to play well in games that matter. And while the preseason scores and stats don’t count, performing well there is the necessary first step.

In the exhibition opener, Liufau saw 16 defensive snaps and recorded a single assist with no solo tackles. Pro Football Focus credited one pass into his coverage, a completion for 11 yards, in giving him a 58.5 (out of 100) defensive grade.

It’s difficult for fans to hone in on any one player while watching the action live, so this complete All-22 collection from Dustin Mosher will allow those interested to see his entire performance.