Dallas defender Marist Liufau fractures forearm in preseason finale
Marist Liufau left Friday's exhibition game early after injuring his arm, later appearing with a cast and sling. The Cowboys' outside linebacker and special teams contributor is expected to undergo surgery and will miss time. The team has not yet announced a recovery timeline.
Marist Liufau’s preseason finale ended early Friday after he sustained a fractured forearm, an injury that visibly required a cast and sling on the sideline. The Cowboys’ outside linebacker, who also plays a key role on special teams, is slated for surgery, though the club has not offered a recovery window.
The timing is notable: with the regular season approaching, depth at linebacker and special teams becomes a priority for Dallas. Liufau’s absence will likely force adjustments in practice rotations and game-day planning, but the team has yet to specify how long he’ll be sidelined.
This injury could affect the Cowboys’ defensive and special teams depth early in the season, potentially shifting playing time to younger or less experienced players. Fans may see altered coverage units or linebacker rotations, but the broader impact on the team’s win-loss record remains uncertain. For Liufau, recovery and rehabilitation will be the immediate focus, with his return timeline shaping both his season and roster decisions.