Ohio State LB Sonny Styles has the full attention of the Oregon Ducks, and 2025 NFL Draft evaluators
The 2025 NFL Draft class is littered with defensive talent. The defensive line, and secondary are some of the deepest parts of the class overall, possessing tremendous talent up top, and talent to be found throughout every round. Linebacker is the one position on defense that doesn’t seem to have a ton of clear answers […]
The 2025 NFL Draft class is littered with defensive talent. The defensive line, and secondary are some of the deepest parts of the class overall, possessing tremendous talent up top, and talent to be found throughout every round. Linebacker is the one position on defense that doesn’t seem to have a ton of clear answers right now.
One prospect that could help to bolster that position is Ohio State standout Sonny Styles, who made the full switch to inside linebacker this offseason after playing a lot of overhang in 2023. At over 6-4 and nearly 240 pounds, Styles is a freaky athlete who can do a lot for a defense.
During the team’s victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes last weekend, we saw a potential breakout performance from Styles. During that contest, he recorded seven total tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss for the Buckeyes. He was making plays from everywhere, showcasing his incredible frame and range on the second level.
It was a bit of a slow start of the season for Styles, but he really came into his own against Iowa. Now Ohio State has a huge matchup against the Oregon Ducks this weekend, which is a potential statement game for Styles. Everyone will be watching, and No. 6 has a chance to continue his momentum.
With his past, it’s easy to see why Styles got off to that slow start. He was a highly recruited athlete who began his career as a safety initially. During the 2023 season, Styles played a lot of overhang for the Buckeyes. Styles even played some safety at times.
Making the transition from the third to second level isn’t easy. Things happen a lot faster, which is why eye discipline and instincts are so important. The game seemed to begin slowing down last weekend for Styles, and he started to play very fast.
Not only do the Buckeyes need his impact, but Styles has a chance to gain tremendous steam for the 2025 NFL Draft class potentially. The NFL is a sucker for long and athletic linebackers, and that’s exactly what Styles brings to the table. He is a player to very much keep a close eye on this weekend, and into the future.
