The University of Texas Medical Center announced Longhorn legend Vince Young’s heart-melting donation of $14 million to its campaign to improve neonatal and.

Predicting how many tackles for loss (TFLs) Anthony Hill will accumulate in the upcoming season is a task that requires both an understanding of his previous performance and a realistic view of his potential development as a player. Hill, a rising star on the Texas defense, had an impressive 16.5 TFLs in the previous season, a mark that showcases his ability to disrupt opposing offenses in a major way. Given the trends, improvements in his skillset, and the overall defensive scheme under head coach Steve Sarkisian, it’s possible to make an educated guess about how many TFLs Hill could have in the upcoming season.

To predict Anthony Hill’s TFLs for the current season, let’s first break down the context surrounding his performance, potential, and the circumstances that could influence his numbers.

In 2024, Hill’s 16.5 tackles for loss were a clear indication of his ability to read plays, disrupt running backs in the backfield, and pressure quarterbacks effectively. He was often used in a variety of roles, allowing him to make plays on different levels of the field, from stuffing the run to blitzing the quarterback. His physicality, instincts, and versatility made him a key piece of the Longhorns’ defense, and as he enters 2025, there is a strong foundation on which to build further success.

Hill’s ability to make TFLs wasn’t just about his individual skill but also about the defensive system he was in. Texas’ defensive coordinator, alongside the coaching staff, utilized Hill’s strengths, putting him in positions where he could thrive. His high football IQ, combined with his 6’2″, 230-pound frame, allowed him to quickly diagnose plays and attack the line of scrimmage when necessary. His impact in the run game, his ability to pressure the quarterback from different angles, and his quick reaction times are all key components to his TFL numbers.

However, while Hill was certainly a disruptive force in 2024, his 16.5 TFLs might not have been the absolute peak of what he could accomplish. The fact that he finished the season with such impressive numbers at a relatively young age suggests that, with further development, he could potentially raise that number in 2025.

As we look toward 2025, one of the key factors influencing Hill’s potential for increased tackles for loss is his growth as a player. He is entering his second full season as a starter and has likely had an entire offseason to improve both physically and mentally. In terms of development, Hill’s natural instincts and athleticism are already elite, so the focus now should be on refining his technique and continuing to grow in his understanding of opposing offenses.

In particular, Hill’s pass-rush ability, recognition of offensive line schemes, and ability to read and react to offensive plays in real-time will be crucial. If he can continue to improve his hand techniques and develop a more varied approach when rushing the passer or attacking the run game, he could increase his TFL total significantly.

Additionally, Hill’s role within the Texas defense could expand in 2025. If the Longhorns continue to utilize him in a blitz-heavy scheme or as a versatile linebacker who can line up in various spots, it will create more opportunities for him to generate TFLs. The more freedom he has to roam, diagnose plays, and engage the offense at different levels, the higher his chances of achieving more tackles for loss.

One of the most significant factors affecting Hill’s TFL numbers will be the overall defensive scheme implemented by Steve Sarkisian and defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski. In 2024, the Longhorns’ defense showed great promise with Hill in the middle of it, but as teams become more familiar with Texas’ schemes, the challenge for Hill and the rest of the defense is to stay unpredictable and keep offenses off balance.

Kwiatkowski’s system relies heavily on creating chaos and confusion up front, allowing players like Hill to capitalize on their strengths. As Texas continues to develop its defense, the scheme will likely evolve in such a way that Hill will see even more opportunities to make plays in the backfield. Whether it’s through more blitz packages or increased stunts and twists along the defensive line, Hill should have more chances to penetrate into the offensive backfield and rack up TFLs.

Another factor to consider is the development of other defensive players on the Longhorns roster. While Hill is certainly the star of the defense, the presence of other disruptive forces on the line and at linebacker will impact his ability to generate tackles for loss. If Texas is able to field a stronger pass rush or more effective run-stoppers, it could force quarterbacks into hurried throws or running backs into difficult decisions, ultimately creating more TFL opportunities for Hill. On the other hand, if the defensive line and other linebackers perform at a high level, it could free Hill up to make even more plays.

For example, if the defensive line manages to push back offensive linemen and create more penetration, Hill could find himself in more favorable positions to make tackles for loss. Furthermore, the development of other linebacker prospects on the Texas roster could help take some pressure off Hill, allowing him to focus on his strengths without the opposing offense keying in on him too heavily.

Considering all the factors mentioned—Hill’s natural progression, Texas’ defensive scheme, and his surrounding teammates—it seems realistic to expect Hill’s TFL total to increase in 2025. While 16.5 TFLs in 2024 was an impressive feat, Hill has the tools to build on that number. Assuming Hill stays healthy, continues to develop, and maintains his work ethic, it’s reasonable to predict that he could finish with anywhere between 18 to 22 tackles for loss in 2025.

Here’s a breakdown of why this range makes sense:

1. Increased Defensive Responsibilities: As Hill matures and earns more trust within the system, he will likely be given more responsibilities. Expect more blitz packages and opportunities to rush the quarterback from different angles, especially if the Texas defense becomes more aggressive.

2. More Opportunities: With the growth of the defense as a whole, Hill will have more opportunities to make plays. Opponents may try to attack other areas of the field, but Hill’s playmaking ability will continue to shine through in key situations. Additionally, the improved run defense will likely funnel more plays into his area of the field, giving him greater chances for TFLs.

3. Increased Scheme Variety: The Longhorns’ defensive coaching staff will likely make adjustments to keep offenses guessing. With more creative defensive play calling, Hill will see more opportunities to wreak havoc in the backfield and disrupt offensive schemes. Expect more exotic blitzes, twists, and stunts that could boost his TFL count.

4. Teammate Development: As the Longhorns’ defense improves and more players emerge as threats, Hill will benefit from being part of a more complete unit. Whether it’s an improved defensive line or additional linebacker support, having more disruptive forces around him will create additional opportunities for Hill to make plays in the backfield.

In all, Hill’s growth as a player, the evolution of Texas’ defense, and the overall improvement of the team’s performance should set the stage for a slight increase in his TFL numbers. Based on these variables, a target of 18 to 22 tackles for loss in the 2025 season seems entirely feasible, and it could be a crucial factor in Texas’ success on defense.

Anthony Hill’s 2025 season will undoubtedly be one to watch. With the potential to increase his tackles for loss from his already impressive 2024 total of 16.5, Hill will be one of the most impactful players on the Longhorns’ defense. His ability to wreak havoc in the backfield, combined with his leadership and growing skill set, will make him a critical asset as Texas seeks to challenge for a Big 12 title and beyond. If Hill can stay healthy and continue his upward trajectory, the 2025 season could see him shatter his previous TFL numbers and cement his place as one of the premier linebackers in college football.