NFL.com draft profile on LB Anthony Hines & video

Anthony Hines III TEXAS A&M LB

Prospect Info

COLLEGE
Texas A&M

HOMETOWN
Plano, TX

CLASS
R-Junior

HEIGHT
6' 2"

WEIGHT
225 lbs

ARMS
32 3/4"

HANDS
9 3/8"

Prospect Grade
5.50 Priority Undrafted Free Agent


Player Bio
Hines was considered the top inside linebacker prospect in the nation out of Plano East High School in Texas, and he garnered Parade All-American and first-team Class 6A All-State and Defensive Player of the Year honors, with 220 tackles, including 38 for loss. As expected, he contributed during his true freshman season, recording 33 tackles, six for loss, and three sacks in 13 appearances for the Aggies. Hines played only one game in 2018 (no statistics), however, before redshirting with a lower leg injury. He returned to form as a sophomore, starting all 13 games and racking up 73 stops, including 10.5 for loss. Hines opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns, stating he lost someone close to him to the virus. -- by Chad Reuter


Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst

Overview
Undersized outside linebacker lacking both starting experience and instincts for the position. He has a natural feel for navigating traffic, but that won't be very valuable to him until he improves his play recognition. He is his own worst enemy, often running himself out of proper positioning, but that might be alleviated some with a move to 4-3 Will linebacker. He has adequate athleticism and closing burst to make tackles as a run-and-chase linebacker, but it will take more time and experience.

Strengths
Has some slither in his game to work through gaps.
Made plays on the other side of the line in 2019.
Does a great job of navigating traffic.
Makes it into his contain positioning against outside run.
Solid lateral scrape quickness with ability to stay square.
Athletic ability to change direction quickly.
Shows off burst gear to close out ball-carrier.

Weaknesses
Only one season as a starter.
Needs more size and strength.
Below-average instincts, with too many false steps.
Instant downhill movement ends up trapping him behind blocks.
Attempts tackles on low side of runner, leading to misses.
Unable to stop runners in their tracks with pop.
Will need better discipline in coverage duties.