2026 NFL Scouting Report: Anthony Hill Jr.

Prospect Summary:

Hill was impressive as a true freshman in 2023, and it looked like he was scratching the surface of his ability. He totaled 67 tackles with five sacks, one forced fumble, and two passes defended. In 2024, Hill had 113 tackles with eight sacks, one pass broken up, and an interception. In Hill’s final season, he was used differently and dropped into coverage more often. He totaled 70 tackles with three forced fumbles, two interceptions, and a pass defended

Hill is well-suited for current NFL defenses as he can be used in a variety of ways to limit offenses and be a disruptive presence. Hill has good size at the point of attack with the strength to take on and shed blocks. He is also a fast defender who eats up a lot of ground and is capable of going sideline-to-sideline. With his skill set and upside, Hill has the potential to be a good pro starter for many years to come.

In run defense, Hill is a tough defender who is an attacking linebacker. Hill shows good instincts to read offenses, and is impressive with his ability to not bite on play fakes or take false steps that get him out of position. Hill reads his keys well and is decisive when he fires downhill to attack a ball carrier. Hill does a superb job of defending screens and perimeter runs while also being a big force in the tackle box. Hill’s speed catches offenses by surprise as he will come downhill quickly to dart past blockers and blow up running plays. With some pro coaching, Hill should be an asset as a run defender in the NFL.

In pass coverage, Hill shows some ability to drop in coverage and play zone. He does a nice job of reading the quarterback’s eyes and disrupting passing lanes. He could stand to develop his pass coverage ability for the NFL, especially if his pro scheme would like him to play some man coverage on tight ends.

Texas uses Hill at different places in the formation as he will play Middle linebacker and move to the outside and play Sam linebacker. The Longhorns would move Hill to Sam in passing sets and have him rush off the edge, taking advantage of his speed and twitch to hunt the quarterback. Hill was a very effective blitzer in 2024, and he shows excellent speed to fly upfield and the ability to dodge tacklers to work his way through trash.

In the 2026 NFL Draft, Hill could be a day-two or mid-round pick. Check out where I currently have Hill going in my latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft.