Sonny Styles: The Draft's Hottest Commodity
Sonny Styles is making waves as the most talked-about prospect in the pre-draft circuit. The former Ohio State linebacker is set to visit the Dallas Cowboys, Washington Commanders, and Cincinnati Bengals, after already meeting with the New York Jets. His appearance on “Up & Adams” with Kay Adams confirmed what many already suspected: Styles is a surefire early first-round pick.
A Physical Marvel
Styles has stormed into the 2026 draft cycle with authority. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-5 and weighing 244 pounds, he demonstrated remarkable agility at the NFL Combine, clocking a 4.46-second 40-yard dash.
His athletic prowess didn’t stop there, boasting a 43.5-inch vertical and an 11-foot-2 broad jump. Styles isn’t just a linebacker; he’s a versatile defensive powerhouse.
Teams are not just considering his ability to play; they’re strategizing on how many roles he can fill simultaneously.
Washington and Dallas are keenly interested, which makes perfect sense given their draft positions and need for speed in the second level. The Bengals, with a “local day” visit, are eager to keep this Ohio native close. Styles wrapped up his Buckeyes career with an impressive 244 combined tackles and nine sacks, proving he’s as productive as he is athletic.
Sonny Styles' Take
“I have met with the Jets, and then I’ll be meeting with the Cowboys and Commanders. I’ll be going to see the Bengals, too. That’ll be awesome… I’m going down to Cincinnati for local day with the coaches.”
Draft Day Drama: Where Will Styles Land?
The Commanders, sitting at No. 7, could see Styles as the perfect heir to their aging defensive stars. Dan Quinn’s defense thrives on versatile, "positionless" players, and Styles fits this mold perfectly.
Dallas, picking at No. 12, might need to make a move to secure him. His potential to transition into an edge rusher offers a safety net that traditional linebackers don’t provide.
A blue-chip prospect, Styles helped Ohio State clinch a National Championship in 2024-25 and earned First-Team All-American honors last season. For teams in the Top 5 looking for a game-changer, Styles could be the spark they need.