OXNARD, Calif. — It's still early for rookie linebacker Marist Liufau as he gets settled in his new jersey and new scheme in the NFL, but it's been clear through just a few weeks that the Hawaiian native brings a certain level of confidence that has him hitting the ground running.
Through two preseason games, Liufau has been trusted in early game situations including a start against the Raiders that saw him play one drive and make plays in coverage, against the run and on a blitz package on the quarterback.
It speaks to the versatility that he had coming out of Notre Dame just four months ago, as he uses a defensive back foundation from his time at Punahou High School and the main Hawaiian island of Oahu paired with collegiate experience in the second level to be a do-it-all weapon for Mike Zimmer in year one.
"I would say that I'm versatile in that aspect of the game," Liufau said. "That's a strength I offer as a linebacker and as a player, so I play to my strengths and do whatever the coaches ask me to do."
Saturday night's performance saw him officially post two tackles on one drive of work, as his confidence continues to grow ahead of his rookie season.
"I felt great," he said. "Felt confident in the defense and felt like we did a great job. We communicated well. Really just having another game under my belt made me feel more comfortable…I have great coaches and they told me to play fast and cut it loose."
Compared to the beginning of training camp, Liufau said he feels like he has truly settled into his new life in the NFL and the expectations that come with it.
"I'm adjusting pretty well, for sure," he said. "It's pretty safe to say that. Just over training camp, I'm getting more comfortable with our scheme. It's due to my preparation and how I attack my process day in and day out of training camp. I've built up a lot of confidence to be able to call the plays and do whatever I can do."
The second week of the preseason was special for Liufau, as his extended family – a group of roughly 14 people to his estimation – were able to make their way to Allegiant Stadium to see him in action.
"I was very excited to play in front of them," he said. "They are a big reason why I do what I do, so making them proud is a big reason why I made it to this league. I was just really excited to play in front of them tonight."
Even through the excitement of a strong performance in front of loved ones in a game that is largely meaningless when it comes to wins and losses, finishing the game on top was still the highlight of Saturday night for the rookie.
"The win, for sure. First win in the NFL, enjoyed that for sure."
