Sonny Styles is a 6’5, 244 lb WILL linebacker out of Ohio State. The former 5-star recruit in the class of 2022 ranked 27th in the nation. Styles committed to Ohio State on 11/13/21 and has played four seasons with the Buckeyes. Styles started as a safety and switched to linebacker. He reclassified from the 2023 class to the 2022 class to join Ohio State early, when he was only 17. In high school, he won the state basketball championship in Ohio. Styles was also named the green dot leader in 2025, with Ohio State signaling he was the defensive play caller. He was named the recipient of the prestigious block “0” jersey in 2025, which is a sign of leadership and respect within the Ohio State football program. During four seasons with the Buckeyes, Styles totaled 244 combined tackles, 22.5 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, 1 interception, 9 pass breakups, & 3 forced fumbles.
Styles has a rare blend of safety and linebacker size. He ran an official 4.46 40-yard dash with a 1.56 10-yard split, which ranks in the 97th percentile. At the 2026 NFL combine, Styles recorded a 43.5-inch vertical and an 11’2 broad jump. His RAS was a 9.99/10. Styles gets off TE’s with ease and processes good strength against bigger linemen. He has powerful hands and a crisp punch against linemen to create separation. Good recognition watching where the running back will hit the hole and meeting him in the hole to make the tackle. His gap awareness is good, and he knows where to be when needed. He has impressive play speed, being able to keep up with running backs, tight ends, and even slot receivers. His closing speed is very good.
Styles has a very good wrap-up technique, aiming for the ball carrier’s waist, and he can go downhill and take appropriate angles. Styles is very good at tracking the ball through the air, especially when the ball is tipped. Good hands catching, and disrupting the receiver’s catch point. His fluid hips can change direction quickly in man coverage. He will be able to stay with anyone he will be covering, and will be able to lock down tight ends with his size and speed combo. In zone, his eyes stand out, being able to read the QB and disrupt passing lanes. Styles has good footwork and a good break when coming downhill. He knows when to switch responsibilities in the zone when needed. Styles is good at blitzing from the MIKE position, splitting the linemen to make a play. He does rush to upright, which needs to be fixed to maximize his leverage and power. Styles’ leg drive versus linemen is impressive, being strong enough to push them backwards. He has a good bend while rushing on the outside, using his overall speed to get around tackles.
Styles will be best suited as a coverage linebacker, using his athletic ability to make plays in both the pass and run games. His ability to read and react will stand out in the NFL, and he will have a big impact wherever he gets drafted. He will be able to cover tight ends and running backs with great efficiency, occasionally rushing the passer. With prior safety experience, he will be able to make plays at the catch point and force turnovers. Teams will love his versatility and will be able to place him at WILL, MIKE, or use him as a big nickel.
Scheme Fit and Team Fit: 3-4 or 4-3 Multiple Front.
Steelers – The Steelers run a 3-4 defense that uses multiple pressure packages.
Eagles – The Eagles run a 3-4 that favors hybrid defenders such as Styles.
Cardinals – The Cardinals run a 3-4 defense that also favors hybrid defenders, making Styles a great fit.
NFL Player Comp: TreMaine Edmunds – NY Giants.
This comparison mainly focuses on size and athletic ability. Styles is so freakishly athletic, he is an inch taller than Edmunds, 5 pounds lighter, and ran a 4.46 while Edmunds ran a 4.54 40-yard dash, and Edmunds is the closest linebacker to come close to Styles’ size and athletic ability.
Projection: Star Player
Future star player with multiple Pro Bowls in his future. His upside is endless, and any team that needs a versatile defender in the top 10 will be in for a treat.
Grade and Round Projection: 6.32, Top 10 selection
5.82 trait grade adjusted to a 6.32 for tape grade, along with future potential as an athletic beast. Styles will be selected as the Top 10 in the 2026 NFL Draft.
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