Texas sophomore LB Anthony Hill named to Butkus Award watch list

Sophomore linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is one of the most irreplaceable players on Texas' roster for the 2024 college football season.

Hill made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 2023, making numerous game-changing plays on his way to earning a spot on FWAA's Freshman All-America team along with co-Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year honors.

The Denton (TX) native played in all 14 games last season and recorded 66 tackles, eight tackles for loss, five sacks and one forced fumble. Hill's breakout performance came against Alabama, where he compiled two tackles for loss, two sacks, and six tackles against the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa.

Hill is receiving high praise prior to the 2024 season, earning a spot on Butkus Award watch list on Tuesday which is given annually to the top collegiate linebacker. He was also named to the preseason watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy.

As a member of the 2023 recruiting class, Hill was ranked the No. 1 linebacker in the nation and No. 3 overall prospect in Texas, according to 247Sports.