The Washington Commanders will be counting heavily upon rookie linebacker Sonny Styles next season. Expectations are extremely high for the No. 7 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, but the early signs couldn't be more encouraging.
Styles will have a pivotal role right out of the gate. His size, athleticism, and ability to make plays at all three levels of the field could completely transform the Commanders' defense under new coordinator Daronte Jones. The former Ohio State standout also has the leadership, intelligence, and communication skills to potentially hold the green dot right out of the gate.
But if Styles was hoping for a bedding-in period to begin his NFL journey, he's out of luck.
Commanders rookie Sonny Styles faces a daunting gauntlet to begin his NFL career
The Commanders know the structure of their games after the NFL officially released the schedule. And most believe Washington's start is nothing short of brutal in the grand scheme of things.
We'll find out what the Commanders are made of, that's for sure. This also goes for Styles, whose NFL debut will be against running back Saquon Barkley when Washington travels to the intimidating Lincoln Financial Field to take on the Philadelphia Eagles in a pivotal division showdown.
After that, the Commanders take on the Dallas Cowboys, meaning Styles will be in the face of Dak Prescott, Javonte Williams, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens. A daunting proposition, but this is why every player strives to get into the league.
Washington's home opener is against the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. With Sam Darnold, Zach Charbonnet, and AP Offensive Player of the Year Jaxon Smith-Njigba to contend with, Styles needs to be at his very best to improve the Commanders' chances of causing a major upset.
The second-level enforcer then goes up against Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor in Week 4. The New York Giants are next up, putting him against Jaxson Dart, Cam Skattebo, and potentially Malik Nabers if he's recovered from injury. Then, it'll be Christian McCaffery on primetime when the Commanders make a trek cross-country to clash with the San Francisco 49ers.
There is no real time to come up for air during Styles' initial transition to the league. The Week 7 bye is a little earlier than preferred, but it will no doubt come as a relief to the former Buckeyes' star. It will also help him reflect, learn, and grow as things are expected to be a little easier for the Commanders over the second half of 2026.
Styles knows the challenges that lie ahead. He will also be ready to tackle them with his customary determination, enthusiasm, and poise.
The Commanders are counting on it.
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