Notre Dame linebacker Marist Liufau declares for NFL draft

SOUTH BEND, Ind -- Marist Liufau opted out of the bowl game to pursue his NFL dream.

Tuesday afternoon, Notre Dame linebacker Marist Liufau announced on social media that he is declaring for the NFL draft.

The fifth-year senior said in his announcement "After much prayer and thought I have decided it is best for me to opt out of the bowl game and pursue my dreams by declaring for the NFL draft."

Liufau ended the season with 44 tackles, one pass deflection, and three sacks. He also has accepted his invite to the Reese’s Senior bowl.