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Sports · Football (NFL) · published 2026-08-30 · via Yahoo Sports

Cowboys lose promising linebacker to forearm surgery

Image via Yahoo Sports
Image via Yahoo Sports

Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Marist Liufau suffered a serious left forearm fracture and will undergo surgery as early as Monday. The injury sidelines him as the team finalizes its regular-season roster, creating a gap in the defensive rotation. The loss of depth poses a challenge for Dallas's defense.

Expanded Detail

The Dallas Cowboys' defensive plans have been disrupted by a significant injury to outside linebacker Marist Liufau, who sustained a fractured left forearm. Medical staff are preparing him for surgery, potentially as soon as Monday, which will begin a recovery period that extends into the regular season.

The timing is particularly difficult for the team, as this injury arrives while Dallas is making final decisions on its 53-man roster. Liufau's absence removes a promising contributor from the defensive rotation, forcing coaches to reassess their linebacker depth and adjust assignments ahead of the season opener.

Context

This injury could affect the Cowboys' defensive performance in the early weeks of the season, potentially influencing game outcomes that matter to fans, fantasy football participants, and the team's playoff aspirations. It may also impact Liufau's development trajectory as a young player, though modern orthopedic care often allows full recovery. The broader ripple effect could shift how the coaching staff allocates snaps and manages player fatigue across the defense.

Expanded detail and Context are AI-generated analysis; the linked article remains the authoritative source.
Read the full article at Yahoo Sports →
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This summary is AI-generated and original to Mobble; the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “Cowboys Dealt Major Setback as Former 3rd-Round Pick Heads to Surgery.” Browse more stories.