(Editor's Note: Time to check the mail! The DallasCowboys.com staff writers answer your questions here in 'Mailbag' presented by Miller Lite.)
What does the coaching staff and front office see in Marist Liufau that make them think he will be successful rushing the passer? He's 6-foot-2 and less than 240 pounds. Granted, he has twitchiness and long arms, but he also possesses a high football IQ. So why wouldn't he play that middle linebacker role going sideline to sideline, a position he's more familiar with? I think they're wasting a good, homegrown talent. – Paul Clark**/Kingsland, TX
Tommy: I think they see a twitchy player with good closing speed that has shown he can lay the lumber on quarterbacks in the past. Yes, Liufau only has 2.5 career sacks thus far in his career, but when he does make plays that catch your eye it's usually when he's using a combination of that speed and twitch to make big hits.
Does that mean the move is going to work? Not necessarily, I'm skeptical as well. That said, there are tools there and I wonder if it's maybe more of a situational plan for him to come in on heavy pressure packages on third down or something along those lines. I do think that Liufau brings value to the roster especially on special teams, and I think that his ability to close quickly on quarterbacks or whoever is a trait that this coaching staff is looking to tap into.
Nick: I don't think it's fair to say that anyone's talent is being wasted, especially after two seasons in the NFL. Let's be honest, if linebacker was truly his best position by far, wouldn't that have surfaced a little more last year when they were desperate for playmakers there?
I think Liufau is somewhat caught in between positions, just because he isn't really the prototype for linebacker or defensive end. But one thing I'm seeing from Christian Parker so far, is that he seems to have a role for each player. And it's not necessarily an every-down role. Take rookie LT Overton for example. They have a specific third-down package where he would slide inside to tackle and use his rushing ability. That's not an every-down role but one for third downs. Let's see what they have in the works for Liufau, who has quick burst and could be someone that creates some occasional problems off the edge.
More than anything, I think you might have your best overall special teams player in Liufau, considering his size and speed and ability to run and hit. Don't be shocked if he leads the team in tackles and maybe gets a blocked punt or kick because he can get up the field quickly.
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