Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. could be an ideal Day 2 fit for the Cowboys after Dallas passed on a linebacker in Round 1.
Anthony Hill Jr. didn’t hear his name called in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, but the Texas Longhorns linebacker may not have to wait much longer.
After no Texas players were selected on opening night, Hill remains the Longhorns’ top draft prospect and is widely expected to come off the board on Day 2.
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One potential landing spot is especially intriguing: the Dallas Cowboys.
ESPN’s Ben Solak listed Hill as a top Day 2 fit for Dallas, pointing to the Cowboys’ continued need at linebacker. Dallas used its two first-round picks on Ohio State safety Caleb Downs and UCF edge rusher Malachi Lawrence, but the middle of the defense still needs help.
“Their need at linebacker remains enormous,” Solak wrote, noting that DeMarvion Overshown is the only proven plus starter in the group but has dealt with injuries.
Hill would give Dallas youth, speed and upside. At 21 years old and 238 pounds, he brings a physical profile that could complement Overshown while giving defensive coordinator Christian Parker another athletic piece for his rebuilt defense.
The Cowboys have done their homework. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer attended Texas Pro Day, while Parker was also on hand to watch Hill work out.
Schottenheimer later had dinner with the Denton Ryan product, adding more smoke to the connection.
Hill has also made it clear he’d welcome the chance to play with Overshown, a fellow former Longhorn.
“There can’t be two Agent 0s, right? … It’d be a blessing to play with him,” Hill said at Texas Pro Day. “I’ve been watching him my whole life.”
Hill’s game isn’t perfect. Scouts have questioned his consistency when taking on blocks and finishing through contact.
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But his flashes, explosiveness and size-speed combination make him one of the more appealing linebackers still available.
For Dallas, Hill could be the Day 2 answer to a first-round need.
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