If it wasn't obvious by the reaction to hearing his name called, Sonny Styles is thrilled to be a member of the Washington Commanders. However, the electrifying Ohio State linebacker made sure to let us know exactly how he feels about landing in our nation's capital.
Styles had a clear message for the Commanders and their fan base. He wasted no time expressing gratitude for the franchise after they took him with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. By the sound of it, Washington was at the top of his wishlist of potential destinations.
"I remember I was [in Washington] a few weeks ago, and I told coach Quinn, 'Hopefully I'll be back soon,'" Styles said.
Sonny Styles couldn't contain his excitement about getting drafted by the Washington Commanders
Head coach Dan Quinn and the Commanders got their guy — and the feeling is evidently mutual. Styles is "super happy" to get to work, specifically in Washington.
The Washington faithful already had plenty of reasons to love Styles. He's a 99th-percentile athlete with an outstanding collegiate résumé who fills a glaring roster hole. His enthusiasm for representing the Commanders is just icing on the cake.
It's been a long time since players were fired up to join the Commanders, which speaks to how far the organization has come. Washington can use Styles' passion just as much as his incredible on-field talent. He's "excited to be part of the organization," shouting out Quinn, general manager Adam Peters and the "whole staff."
Anyone who watched Styles at Ohio State knows he carries himself with the same energy and intensity in the heat of battle. The 21-year-old is a high-level competitor with a physical profile to boot. His relentless motor, plus an elite combination of size and speed, makes him a difference-maker against the run and in coverage.
Across 14 games in 2025, Styles amassed 82 tackles (6.5 for loss), three pass deflections, one forced fumble, an interception and a sack. His versatile skill set was on full display for a Buckeyes squad that allowed the fewest points per game (9.3) in the country last season.
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