As the NFL free agency frenzy winds down, the spotlight now shifts to the 2026 NFL Draft, where the New York Giants hold the fifth-overall pick. With a focus on fortifying their defense, particularly against the run, the Giants have their sights set on Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, a name that's gaining traction in mock drafts.
Giants Eye Ohio State LB Sonny Styles
In NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah's latest mock draft, the Giants are projected to snag Styles with the fifth pick. Jeremiah highlights that Styles would be a formidable presence behind the Giants’ dynamic front line.
There’s some concern that Styles could be off the board by then, but Jeremiah envisions him slipping past the Tennessee Titans at No. 4, landing perfectly for the Giants.
Sonny Styles: A Unique Defensive Weapon
Sonny Styles isn’t your typical linebacker. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 235 pounds, with blazing sub-4.5 speed, Styles is a hybrid player who initially made his mark as a safety.
In 2025, he was the cornerstone of Ohio State’s defense, amassing 82 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and defending three passes. His size and speed make him a nightmare for tight ends in coverage and a relentless pursuer of ball carriers.
Pairing Styles with Tremaine Edmunds could give the Giants one of the most athletic linebacker duos in the league.
Performance Snapshot
- 2024 Season (Junior): 100 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 5 pass breakups
- 2025 Season (Senior): 82 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 3 pass breakups, 1 interception
Styles’ senior year saw him refine his skills, earning an impressive 88.0 PFF grade, reflecting his growth and efficiency. His missed tackle rate dropped to a career-low 2.2%, showcasing his improved ability to read plays and react swiftly.
In coverage, Styles returned to his safety roots, allowing just a 68.4 passer rating when targeted, proving his capability to neutralize the NFL’s athletic tight ends.
Fit for Dennard Wilson’s Defense
Styles’ potential selection at No. 5 is tied closely to the defensive philosophy of new DC Dennard Wilson. Wilson’s scheme thrives on aggressive, versatile defenders who can switch from blitzing to coverage seamlessly. Styles’ secondary experience makes him an invaluable asset in this system.
Jeremiah points out that Styles would excel playing behind the chaos created by Dexter Lawrence, Abdul Carter, and Brian Burns, allowing him the freedom to make impactful plays.
Balancing Positional Value and Talent
Drafting a linebacker so high is always a topic of debate, especially when positions like offensive tackle or cornerback are traditionally valued more. However, if the Giants’ leadership believes Styles is a game-changer who can influence all levels of play, they might prioritize his talent over positional norms.
Ultimately, if Sonny Styles is viewed as a generational talent, the Giants may very well embrace the opportunity to add such a unique player to their defensive arsenal.