First-round picks typically get more hype than most. But if the Washington Commanders were hoping that linebacker Sonny Styles' transition to the pros would go under the radar, they're out of luck.
Styles' first impression is getting harder to keep quiet. And if the same trend continues over the summer, that's only going to send hype soaring further before his debut year in the league.
There is a lot to like about Styles. He was among the most highly touted college recruits in this class, and with good reason. The Commanders believe they now have their defensive linchpin to build around, and the alpha-like traits displayed over Washington's offseason program only lend more weight to these claims.
Sonny Styles already looks like the Commanders' next defensive linchpin
Coaches, players, and ex-Washington stars were all gushing in their praise of Styles. He's got the athletic intangibles to be a legitimate force. His willingness to lead looks tailor-made for the culture. And he simply wants to be great.
Nothing will come between Styles and his goals. He lives and breathes football, using every possible resource to get better while also displaying an exceptional work ethic that's hard not to love. There might be some growing pains initially, but the Ohio State product could just as easily hit the ground running and stay ahead of the game.
The Commanders got a gift when Styles fell to No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. It was something they weren't going to waste, and being overlooked until then only added more fuel to his fire.
Styles has not come just to take a back seat. He wants to be a focal point immediately, and there are already some positive signs emerging. The athleticism is almost unbelievable for a man his size, as evidenced by his historic performance at the NFL Scouting Combine. His well-rounded skill set makes him a three-down force that commands respect on every snap.
While Styles won't be a surprise to teams, even in Year 1, there will be more than a few clubs in Washington's way who'll be taken aback by the player and the communicator. His potential impact on the Commanders' defense is immeasurable with an almost unlimited ceiling. Looking at the other options in the linebacker room, not many will get the better of them next season and beyond.
Styles is as advertised so far. It's easy to get carried away at this time of year, but there does seem to be something special about this one.
Getting it done in the regular season will be the litmus test. Styles has everything one looks for in a productive second-level enforcer on defense, but the NFL can find you out quickly. Fortunately, there is an old head on young shoulders, which should keep complications to a minimum.
Excitement is growing around Styles. The Commanders may have wanted to take a cautious approach, but it seems as if that ship has already sailed.
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