Cowboys’ Schottenheimer Dines with Top Draft Prospect Anthony Hill Jr.
AUSTIN — Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer spent Monday evening with Texas Longhorns linebacker Anthony Hill Jr., signaling significant interest in the potential NFL draft prospect. The meeting, held in Austin, came ahead of Hill’s pro day on Tuesday, where multiple Cowboys representatives were in attendance, including Schottenheimer, vice president of player personnel Will McClay, and defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
Hill, considered a potential first-round pick, is a key target as the Cowboys look to bolster their linebacker corps. He currently ranks 37th overall on NFL Network draft expert Daniel Jeremiah’s massive board.
A Familiar Profile?
The Cowboys already have DeMarvion Overshown at the Will linebacker position, and Hill could potentially fill the Mike linebacker role. There is some speculation about whether the two players might be too similar, but Hill believes he can play both positions. His NFL.com comparison is former Washington and Seattle linebacker Bobby Wagner, known for his ability to rush the passer, having finished his Texas career with 17 sacks in three seasons.
Hill acknowledged drawing inspiration from Overshown’s game, stating, “The way he takes on blocks, I try to utilize that in my game. He kind of uses some finesse and a little bit of power. So I try to model my game and use some of that.” He also noted the significance of both he and Overshown wearing the No. 0 jersey at Texas, joking, “There can’t be two Agent Zeros.”
Draft Strategy and Potential Trade
The Cowboys hold the 12th and 20th overall picks in the upcoming draft. There’s a possibility they could trade back from either of those spots to acquire additional draft capital. Hill likely won’t be available when the Cowboys pick at No. 20, according to draft projections.
During the dinner with Schottenheimer, the conversation included “laughs, some talk, some football,” according to Hill, who opted for smothered chicken and a Caesar salad.
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