Longhorns Ex Anthony Hill Jr. Finds 'Inspiration' & 'Impact' in New Jersey Number

Just as any rookie steps into minicamp and OTAs after being chosen in the NFL Draft, one of their first tasks is to choose how they'll be represented on the field: their jersey number.

For Tennessee Titans linebacker and second-round draft pick out of Texas, Anthony Hill Jr. ran into a roadblock when his No. 0 digit, worn last season for the Longhorns, was not available. The number belongs to wide receiver Calvin Ridley.

Hill landed on No. 53, which, naturally, brings a different vibe than his previous number. He shared with his new team the process that went into his selection.

"I did some research on the number, and I [saw] there was a legendary linebacker that wore it," Hill said, referencing Titans great Keith Bulluck.

"So now, I've got to hold up to the tradition. So, I'm going to just try to work hard every day and try to just reach the level that he reached."

Bulluck earned the nickname "Mr. Monday Night" for his ability to play his best in the biggest moments. The linebacker accumulated over 1,000 tackles in 10 seasons with the Titans before his induction into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

"I hope to connect with him, get to talk with him," Hill said. "I'm rocking his number now, so I've got to connect with him and see what he's all about. Watch some highlights and kind of get a good feel for him."

Like he did at Texas, Hill hopes to make a name for himself immediately.

The Longhorns ex was a three-year starter in Austin. Most recently, he earned second-team All-American honors in 2024 and 2025.

On paper, at 6-3 and 238 pounds, Hill possesses all the traits that a defensive coordinator wants in a linebacker.

READ MORE: Titans LB Anthony Hill Jr. Named One of Best Team Fits of Second Round

He's seen as a true three-down linebacker who excels in both top positions (WILL and MIKE), while being a heat-seeking missile when given the chance. He completed 249 tackles (31.5 for loss) at Texas.

Oh, and he can rush the passer as well, where he recorded 17.0 career sacks.

You can make the case that every NFL defense had a reason to be after Hill. A high-energy playmaker, he has all the traits to become a star in the NFL, and that's why he's being listed among the rookies with the biggest chances to make an impact for their new team.

"Hill's versatility is why I think he has an easy pathway to playing time," said ESPN's Field Yates. "He is a highly skilled athlete with the ability to make plays from sideline to sideline and flip the field (17 sacks, seven forced fumbles in a three-year college career).

"Whether he plays as a stand-up inside linebacker, rushes the passer off the edge or drops into coverage in sub packages, Hill should be a busy and active player for new Titans coach Robert Saleh."