The Washington Commanders were always going to pull the trigger on linebacker Sonny Styles when he fell to No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. It was a no-brainer for general manager Adam Peters, and the defensive second level could be a significant strength next season.
Styles joins free-agent signing Leo Chenal in Washington's linebacking corps. That instantly raises the energy and athleticism, especially with Bobby Wagner no longer around. The Commanders still have hope that Jordan Magee can evolve into a more featured role, and there is also the presence of Frankie Luvu to factor into the equation.
And for Luvu, the additions of Chenal and Styles, in particular, could have lasting implications on his future in Washington beyond the current campaign.
Commanders' drafting Sonny Styles raises the stakes for Frankie Luvu
Luvu burst onto the scene after joining in 2024 free agency from the Carolina Panthers. The Washington State product formed a prolific partnership with Wagner, with both earning second-team All-Pro honors. Fans were expecting more of the same from the Commanders' defensive heartbeat, but he took a step back in 2025.
The production wasn't nearly as impressive, but there were mitigating circumstances attached. Luvu was forced to spend more time on the edge as Washington's injury problems plunged them into crisis. New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones is moving him back to an off-ball role, but the stakes couldn't be much higher in a contract year.
It's a prove-it year for Luvu, make no mistake about that. He's counting $11.29 million against the cap next season, but there have been no reports about a new deal ahead of time. Acquiring Styles to be their new second-level linchpin means he'll have to earn an extended stay in Washington.
There's a good chance Luvu can make the improvements needed. Jones' scheme will be reliant on explosiveness and aggression — traits the Tafuna High School graduate has in abundance. Whether he can do enough for another contract is another matter.
Luvu is an inspirational figure both on and off the field. He brings an infectious enthusiasm that's hard not to love, but Peters is always in evaluation mode. And unless he is entirely convinced, there are now contingencies in place to make him disposable if the required strides aren't made.
That shouldn't be too much of an issue. Luvu always plays with a chip on his shoulder, as if every down is his last. He went undrafted and had to force his way up from a special-teams ace with the New York Jets to be one of the league's most dynamic linebackers. He'll need all that and more this time around.
Styles represents the future. Luvu is also a core part of the team's plans in 2026.
Hopefully, it'll be for a lot longer than that.
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