The Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers are both showing interest in a Texans linebacker ahead of the 20256 NFL draft.
That Texas linebacker is Anthony Hill Jr., according to Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports.
Pauline adds that the Cowboys and Panthers "sent their general managers to the workout specifically to scout Hill," which shows significant interest.
But Hill didn't exactly put his best foot forward, as Pauline says scouts weren't thrilled with how his body looked.
"Anthony Hill Jr. sat on all his marks from the combine, but he did position drills," he reported. "Several scouts mentioned Hill has a bad (soft) body and needs a lot of weight room work."
Hill had a strong showing at the combine after posting a 4.51 40-yard dash, a vertical jump of 37 inches and 21 reps on the bench press, per NFL.com.
Here's more from Lance Zierlein of NFL.com:
Three-down linebacker with the playing demeanor and production of a future Pro Bowler. He posted 31.5 TFLs, 17 sacks and eight forced fumbles in his three seasons at Texas, making an impact in every phase. He’s instinctive, athletic and under control, transitioning seamlessly from read to react to finish. He plays with downhill thump to thwart interior blocks and the speed to pursue runners from sideline to sideline. Hill has plus cover talent in man or zone, proven credentials as a blitzer or edge rusher, and finishes plays as a strong, reliable tackler. Consistency and field command make him one of the safer linebackers in the class. His size, speed and versatility allow him to profile as an instant-impact rookie at Mike or Will ‘backer.
Pauline notes that Hill could go in the bottom third of the first round.
If that's the case, he would be well within striking distance for both teams, as the Panthers own the No. 19 pick while the Cowboys own the No. 21 selection.