Anthony Hill Jr. Ranked Among Top NFL Rookies

The Titans linebacker earned the league recognition after a standout performance in his first four games of the season.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Football

Anthony Hill Jr. Ranked Among Top NFL Rookies

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Tennessee Titans linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. has been named the seventh-best rookie on NFL.com's latest defensive rankings. This honor follows his selection as the Defensive Rookie of the Month for September.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights Hill's impact as a defensive leader for the Titans, even as the team struggles with an 0-4 start to the 2026 season. Hill has maintained a consistent presence by playing every defensive snap for the team.

Hill has recorded 42 total tackles, 13 defensive stops, and two pass deflections this season. He maintains a 73.5 Pro Football Focus tackling grade while operating as the team's primary middle linebacker.

The players

Anthony Hill Jr.

He is a Tennessee Titans linebacker who was selected in the second round of the 2026 NFL draft.

Sonny Styles

He is the rookie currently ranked first on the NFL.com defensive rankings list.

The details

As the team's Mike linebacker and green-dot wearer, Hill provides sideline-to-sideline range for the Nashville-based franchise. He was selected by the team in the second round of the 2026 NFL draft.

Anthony Hill Jr. was selected in the NFL draft in April 2026.
Hill earned the Defensive Rookie of the Month honor for September 2026.
NFL.com published its rookie defensive rankings on October 10, 2026.

Season Trajectory

Hill's emergence as a defensive anchor represents a rare bright spot for the Titans during a difficult 0-4 start to the 2026 season. His individual performance trajectory contrasts with the team's ongoing struggles to secure a victory.

Hill has played every defensive snap for the Titans, confirming his status as the cornerstone of the middle linebacker position. His ability to record 34 tackles over the first three weeks of the season solidifies his consistent role in the team's rotation.

The takeaway

Hill's performance underscores the value of drafting foundational defensive players early in the offseason. His ability to immediately command the middle of the field offers a positive outlook for the defense's long-term development.