The New York Giants have been at the center of draft conversations lately, with names like Carnell Tate, Caleb Downs, and Jordyn Tyson frequently mentioned. But after the NFL Combine, there's a new contender in the mix: Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles.
Styles turned heads with an extraordinary display of athletic prowess, making a compelling case for himself as a top-five draft pick, a rarity for off-ball linebackers. His performance at the Combine was nothing short of historic, capturing the attention of coaches and scouts alike.
Standing tall at 6'5" and weighing 244 pounds, Styles impressed with his physical measurements. But it was his athletic testing that truly set him apart.
He shattered records with a 43.5" vertical jump, the best ever for a player of his size, and an 11'2" broad jump, leading all linebackers. His 4.46-second 40-yard dash tied for the fastest of the day, matched only by Arvell Reese.
However, Styles isn't just about raw athleticism. His game film backs up the hype, showcasing his ability to make crucial tackles and leverage his size to dominate ball carriers.
With a background as a safety, his coverage skills are top-notch, allowing him to chase down runners across the field. While no prospect is without flaws, Styles comes remarkably close to the ideal.
The Giants, known for prioritizing talent over positional needs, have a history of selecting the best player available, as seen with their pick of Saquon Barkley. With Styles, they have a chance to bolster their defense significantly. His unique skill set would be a valuable addition behind their already strong defensive line.
As the Giants focus on building around Jaxson Dart this offseason, the temptation to draft an elite defensive talent like Styles could prove irresistible. His standout Combine performance might just be the deciding factor for Joe Schoen and the Giants' front office when draft night arrives.