Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters was under enormous pressure to get his selection right at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. The excitement was at fever pitch, but the unknowns attached left fans feeling trepidation ahead of the big night.
Peters got his guy, selecting Sonny Styles out of Ohio State. And according to one of the more respected analysts in the business, this was a stroke of genius from Washington's front-office leader at the best possible time.
Styles was always on Washington's shortlist. Those in power spent considerable time with the linebacker throughout their pre-draft assessments, including on their annual visit to Top Golf. Peters and head coach Dan Quinn were impressed enough to take the plunge, and they weren't alone in that regard.
Daniel Jeremiah was stunned Commanders got their hands on Sonny Styles
NFL Network insider Daniel Jeremiah's immediate assessment did nothing to diminish the excitement around Styles' potential impact in Washington. The analyst lauded the athleticism, poise, and everything in between. There is something magical about the way he goes about his business, which endeared the Commanders enough to make their stunning leap of faith.
"I was talking to Adam Peters about how Sonny Styles would be a perfect fit for the Titans, given how he used Fred Warner. Peters has been around Fred Warner, too. I just didn't think he would be around when it was Washington's turn to pick.
"A physical presence. A former safety who isn't afraid of contact. He can shoot gaps and isn't afraid to get physical. This is just a great pick."
Simply put, the Commanders got a good one.
Styles has lofty expectations on his shoulders. The Commanders needed an injection of energy and dynamism at the linebacker spot. This could be that with a smooth transition, and it also looks like a good scheme fit for what Washington is going to run on that side of the football.
Jeremiah is one of the shrewdest draft minds around. His opinion carries a ton of weight. If he believes Styles can provide the spark Washington needs, that should be enough to appease the small minority of fans on social media who were somewhat skeptical of the decision.
Peters knows what he's doing. He doesn't do anything without legitimate conviction, and Styles has all the tools needed to flourish. Expectations will be through the roof for a player with immense potential, but Jeremiah is supremely confident he can deliver the goods.
If he can, then it's all systems go for the Commanders.
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