The Washington Commanders are asking a lot of Sonny Styles. But just nine games into his NFL career, the rookie linebacker is already demonstrating qualities associated with the modern-day greats.
Styles' athletic traits are absolutely off the charts. His exceptional testing at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine got everyone's attention, but he is so much more than that.
His cerebral approach, outstanding work ethic, and willingness to lead defy his tender years. After another display of pure dominance against the New York Giants on Thursday Night Football, Styles has now cemented his status as the undisputed alpha on Washington's defense.
Sonny Styles is the Commanders' true defensive general
Want further proof? Then former quarterback turned ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky provided it.
During his All-22 analysis of the contest, Orlovsky focused on the third-down play that eventually resulted in Styles securing a vital tackle for loss on quarterback J.J. McCarthy. And he was astonished by what he found.
Orlovsky pointed to Styles getting everyone in position pre-snap. When he spotted something — probably what the play was going to be — he immediately checked everyone, marshaling proceedings like a seasoned veteran and making sure everyone was in the right position.
Just before the snap, Styles shifts his body to the right, even before McCarthy goes that way. He knew precisely what was coming, and his superb closing speed allowed him to make a critical play with everything on the line.
Hard to find a more impressive play from a rookie defender this season when you take it all into account@Commanders @sonnystyles_ 👏🏼👏🏼@PFTCommenter pic.twitter.com/VKi1qDxaYM
— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) November 13, 2026
Just sensational.
It involves memories of Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Luke Kuechly. The legendary Carolina Panthers linebacker was renowned and feared around the league for calling plays out before they were snapped. It was off-putting to quarterbacks and offensive linemen, and the results spoke for themselves.
Sonny Styles is everything the Commanders thought he would be and more
This came through arduous study of schematic concepts and tendencies. Very few have the discipline to put in hours and go above and beyond in their preparation.
Kuechly had all the athletic tools as a legitimate three-down force. But his pre-snap awareness and football IQ truly set him apart.
It's early days, of course. But Styles is already displaying these qualities.
And he's just getting started.
Having the confidence to see things unfolding quickly and relay his message to veteran players who've been in the league for years is truly remarkable. This first-year player is dictating Washington's defense, and the coaching staff trusts him to do it effectively.
And if anyone had lingering doubts about taking an off-ball linebacker at No. 7 overall, they have been firmly quashed.
Styles isn't your average linebacker. There is more than enough evidence to suggest that. And if this trend continues, the Commanders will have a legitimate superstar for the next decade.
Everyone in the NFL has talent. This is the sport's pinnacle, and they wouldn't be there without it.
But Styles' relentless determination to excel and prepare — both on and off the field — is already making him a cut above the rest in Year 1 of his professional career.
The Commanders have found something with Styles. And given his mindset, complacency will not be an option.
Because his goals go way beyond being just another productive NFL linebacker.
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