Sonny Styles, a linebacker from Ohio State, is making a strong case for himself in the upcoming NFL Draft, currently positioned as the No. 13 prospect on the NFL Draft Top 100 Big Board. This detailed analysis covers Styles’ potential, recent performances, and where he stands among other draft contenders.
Styles has sometimes played in the shadows of teammate Arvell Reese, who has emerged as a top-tier prospect, yet he remains a formidable first-round LB possibility, ranking as my LB2 with a top-15 grade. While Styles and Reese bring different strengths to the field—Styles being more refined and reliable in traditional linebacker duties—he possesses a skill set that makes him a unique asset. He combines the ability to process fast-paced plays and make quick decisions, complemented by his impressive range as a tackler. His background as a safety enhances his coverage capabilities, allowing him to excel in pass defense and effectively manage routes.
In the recent college football landscape, Ohio State enjoyed a bye week, but will face a challenging matchup against the Penn State Nittany Lions in Week 10. Although Penn State’s passing game appears weak, their running game has shown signs of strength, spotlighting standout players like Kaytron Allen. Styles’ next challenge will involve refining his engagement strategies against offensive linemen, ensuring he can contain the Lions’ running attack.
Returning from the bye, Styles delivered an outstanding performance in Ohio State’s commanding victory over Penn State. Demonstrating his versatility, he excelled in both run and pass defense. His awareness and vision allowed him to effectively disrupt plays, while his athleticism contributed significantly to his ability to cover ground and close down offensive threats. A highlight was his pass breakup, showcasing his lengthy reach and adeptness in coverage. Styles’ transition from a safety to a well-rounded three-down linebacker position exemplifies his growth, solidifying his status as a likely first-round pick.
In the ongoing mock draft movements, Styles is frequently projected as a top-19 overall pick with an Average Draft Position (ADP) of 21.5, indicating that he is valued among first-round prospects. The Baltimore Ravens have shown a particular interest in Styles, with a notable percentage of users selecting him during mock drafts, indicating their belief in his potential for immediate impact.
As the NFL Draft approaches, Sonny Styles continues to differentiate himself among his peers. Holding the top spot among linebackers in this draft class, he is poised to make an impression at the next level, embodying a player whose skills and instincts can translate effectively to professional football. His steady ascent through the ranks of draft prospects, backed by strong performances and consistent evaluations, paints a promising picture for his NFL future.