Cowboys Eye Shockingly Talented Two-Time All-American LB — Will He Change Their Season?

The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft with one glaring need on their roster: the linebacker position. Currently, they have just three inside linebackers under contract: DeMarvion Overshown, Shemar James, and Justin Barron. Although they also have Marist Liufau, he is expected to be utilized as a pass-rushing outside linebacker, leaving the Cowboys in search of reliable talent for the inside linebacker role.

In a strategic move, the Cowboys have scheduled a meeting with Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. next week, following the Texas Pro Day. This visit comes as the Cowboys aim to bolster their defense, which has been a critical area of focus this offseason. Notably, Hill will also meet with the Minnesota Vikings, Houston Texans, and New York Giants as teams assess their needs ahead of the draft.

Despite not having met Hill during the NFL Scouting Combine, the Cowboys’ front office has arranged a private dinner with the linebacker, indicating their serious interest. Hill is an intriguing prospect but not one the Cowboys are likely to select in the first round. Instead, they could find a pathway to acquire him through a trade-back scenario, especially since he might not be available when they pick at No. 92.

Potential Fit for the Cowboys

At 6-foot-2 and 238 pounds, Hill demonstrated his versatility and athleticism during his time with the Texas Longhorns. He accumulated impressive statistics over three seasons, including 259 tackles, 31.5 tackles for loss, 17 sacks, and three interceptions. His performance at the NFL Combine further solidified his draft stock, as he clocked a 4.51 40-yard dash, achieved a 1.58 10-yard split, a 37-inch vertical leap, and completed 21 bench press reps.

Draft analyst Lance Zierlein from NFL.com has made a compelling comparison, likening Hill to Bobby Wagner, a player known for his instant impact in the NFL. Zierlein describes Hill as “instinctive, athletic and under control,” highlighting his ability to transition seamlessly from read to react situations. He possesses the speed to pursue plays sideline to sideline and exhibits “downhill thump” when engaging with blockers. Hill also boasts strong coverage capabilities, whether in man or zone schemes, making him one of the safest linebacker prospects in the draft.

If the Cowboys can secure a trade-back scenario to land Hill in the second round, it could significantly enhance their defensive lineup. The need is evident, and making a strategic move to acquire a player with Hill’s skill set could prove to be a game-changer for the franchise.

As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming draft, they currently hold several key selections: Round 1, Pick 12, Round 1, Pick 20, Round 3, Pick 92, Round 4, Pick 112, Round 5, Picks 152, 177, and 180, and Round 7, Pick 218. This array of picks provides them with the flexibility to maneuver in search of the right talent, particularly in the linebacker position, which could be pivotal for their defensive strategy moving forward.

The Dallas Cowboys are clearly focused on solidifying their linebacker corps as they approach the draft. With Anthony Hill Jr. on their radar, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Cowboys navigate this critical opportunity to enhance their roster.