The 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and we've got you covered with in-depth scouting reports for all of this year's top prospects.
Ohio State's Sonny Styles is the top linebacker prospect in this year's class, and there's not a close second. With a rare blend of size, athleticism and intelligence, Styles flies around the field with impressive range, and can make big plays against both the run and pass.
Here's everything NFL fans need to know about Styles heading into this year's draft:
Sonny Styles' Vitals
Height: 6-4
Weight: 243
Age: 21
Sonny Styles' Strengths
This guy is the total package. Styles brings rare size for an off-ball linebacker, with athleticism and range that allows him to fly around the field and make big plays against both the run and pass. He uses his impressive wingspan to shut down passing lanes in coverage and keep offensive linemen from getting into his chest in the run game, and he’s too quick for most blockers to lock onto and drive out of the play. He shows elite instincts and intelligence, quickly diagnosing plays and staying one step ahead of the ball-carrier, arriving with attitude and making the ball-carrier think twice about coming his way again. He can line up all over the defense, giving him true three-down value with the ability to get after the quarterback in blitz packages or when rolled down to the line of scrimmage as an edge defender. An unquestioned leader, Styles brings valuable intangible qualities to the table.
Sonny Styles' Weaknesses
Styles’ height can work against him at times, challenging his ability to consistently keep his pads low when taking on blocks or breaking down to make tackles in space. He can be a little stiff in man coverage if forced to carry his assignment through complex routes, or for long periods of time. He’s got a knack for flying to the ball and making big plays, but his aggressive playing style can backfire when he overruns a cutback lane or gets sucked into the box by a play-action fake. A converted safety, Styles is still polishing the intricacies of the linebacker position.
Final Analysis
He’s still getting comfortable at the position, but Styles’ combination of physical gifts and mental prowess don’t come around often at the linebacker spot. If he continues to refine his skill set with more experience and a strong coaching staff, he’s got all the traits to become an All-Pro who can put up huge numbers and transform an entire defense with his performance and leadership.