What led up to the Commanders picking LB Sonny Styles?

TL;DR

The Washington Commanders selected linebacker Sonny Styles with the No. 7 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Styles, who led Ohio State in tackles, is expected to enhance the team's defense with his speed and athleticism.

Key points

Washington Commanders selected Sonny Styles with No. 7 pick
Styles led Ohio State in tackles last season
He ran a 4.46 40-yard dash and weighs 244 pounds
The Commanders aim to get younger and faster on defense
Styles transitioned from safety to linebacker

Mentioned in this story

Dan QuinnDaronte Jones

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders held the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. As we now know, the Commanders found their new defensive leader, selecting Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles.

Before Washington went on the clock, there were a couple of mild surprises in the top five. What were they? Let's take a look at what the other six teams did in front of the Commanders, before Styles heard his name called.

1. The Las Vegas Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana. The plan is for Kirk Cousins to start the season while mentoring/tutoring Mendoza. Mendoza couldn't ask for a better teacher or supporter in Cousins. Cousins knows he is in his last year(s) and his mature enough to accept his role with the Raiders
1. The New York Jets chose David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech. A first-team All-American, Bailey led the NCAA in sacks (14.5) last season. NFL Network just reported it is the first time the Jets have drafted a defensive player this high (second overall. Interestingly, his top 30 visit had been canceled in recent weeks, but the Jets tonight take Bailey anyway.
1. The Arizona Cardinals decided to ignore all the talk about player value, drafting Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love. He rushed for 1300 yards averaging 6.9 a carry last season for the Fighting Irish. Love just became the first running back selected in the top five since the 2018 draft (Saquon Barkley to the NYG ).The Cardinals are really hurting at quarterback. They released and backup is not happy currently with the Cardinals.

Q&A

Why did the Washington Commanders select Sonny Styles in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Commanders selected Sonny Styles to enhance their defense, as he is the most athletic linebacker in the draft and fits their need for younger, faster players.

What were the top picks before the Commanders selected Sonny Styles?

Before the Commanders picked Styles, the top six picks included quarterbacks, edge rushers, and a running back, with notable selections like Fernando Mendoza and David Bailey.

What are Sonny Styles' key statistics and background?

Sonny Styles ran a 4.46 40-yard dash, weighed 244 pounds, and led Ohio State in tackles last season, transitioning from safety to linebacker.

How does Sonny Styles fit into the Commanders' defensive strategy?

Sonny Styles is expected to complement the Commanders' attacking defense under DC Daronte Jones, bringing speed and athleticism to the linebacker position.