The Washington Commanders have a superstar in rookie linebacker Sonny Styles. His latest prime-time display showed everyone just how far he's come in a short time.
Washington needed to beat the Philadelphia Eagles. Nothing else would have sufficed, and although it was far from perfect, the result mattered most.
They achieved this objective. And not for the first time this season, Styles led Washington's defensive surge against an under-strength Eagles squad.
Sonny Styles already looks like the next Commanders' defensive linchpin
Styles might be a rookie with just seven NFL games under his belt, but he moves like a seasoned veteran.
His positional sense, communication, and ability to read defenses are as impressive as his elite-level athleticism. His control is improving as the game slows down, and he is only going to get better from here.
NBC Sports analyst Cris Collinsworth was blown away by Styles on Sunday Night Football at Northwest Stadium, and with good reason.
He noted how the Ohio State product already looks like the real deal. Collinsworth was especially impressed by his closing speed and anticipation, drawing plaudits throughout the broadcast as the Commanders saved their season.
General manager Adam Peters has made some errors over his three drafts in charge. But not overthinking Styles when he fell out of the top five and into the Commanders' lap at No. 7 overall was a masterstroke.
Styles has got everything. He's already an inspirational force his teammates are feeding off. He was always around the action, coming up with the goods in key moments to ensure Washington saw out the contest with minimal fuss.
Sonny Styles' ceiling is immeasurable after sensational Commanders start
It was another virtuoso display, and Styles is quickly emerging as a frontrunner for AP Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
Whether others will eventually gain the accolade isn't important to the Commanders. They have received instant vindication for their decision, even though some analysts questioned whether Washington was in a position to take an off-ball linebacker so high.
Peters stuck to his conviction. And he's being rewarded.
The Commanders have a defensive linchpin to build around for the next decade. Styles is not your average linebacker, and it's only smoothed his transition from college to the pros.
He is strong enough and disciplined enough to make an impact against the run. His speed and athleticism make him a pass-rushing asset on blitzes, and his technical prowess wraps up oncoming runners and sheds blocks with no trouble.
The height and length are right there, and his coverage work as a former safety is exemplary.
This is the total package. Styles has endeared himself to Washington's fan base and announced himself to the entire league. Everyone is on notice, and the first-round pick is just getting started.
Styles will grow. He will improve, both as a player and a leader. He can enhance his physical attributes while also keeping the same athleticism in his prime.
That's a scary proposition for the entire league. And after another outstanding showcase of his credentials with the NFL's undivided attention on prime time, the hype train is moving to warp speed.
There's no telling what Styles' eventual ceiling will be. But what's undisputed is that the Commanders have hit a home run.
That's not up for debate, even this early in Styles' professional journey.
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