The 2025 NFL season is underway, but the focus is already shifting toward the 2026 NFL Draft. The Carolina Panthers are scouting potential prospects, including linebacker Sonny Styles from Ohio State University.
Who is Sonny Styles?
Sonny Styles has a notable football lineage. His father, Lorenzo Styles, played in the NFL for six seasons and achieved a Super Bowl victory with the Rams. This background fuels Sonny’s ambitions in the sport.
Reclassified to graduate high school early, Styles joined the Buckeyes at just 17 years old. He initially played as a safety but transitioned to linebacker in the 2024 season. This switch significantly enhanced his performance on the field.
Impressive Athleticism
Styles is known for his athleticism. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 245 pounds, he recorded impressive metrics:
- Forty-yard dash: 4.48 seconds
- Broad jump: 11 feet
- Vertical leap: 40 inches
His powerful physical attributes make him formidable against the run. Styles excels at defeating blockers and tackling ball carriers. His size, combined with his agility, also allows him to effectively cover passes and maintain coverage over substantial areas of the field.
Football Intelligence and Versatility
Beyond his physical capabilities, Styles possesses remarkable football intelligence. His play recognition skills enable him to anticipate plays and respond effectively. Versatility is another strength; he can adapt to various roles on defense, from slot corner to safety and linebacker, even rushing the passer when needed.
Areas for Improvement
While Styles showcases impressive skills, he is not without weaknesses. His primary challenge lies in man coverage against agile receivers, a common issue for many linebackers. Additionally, his experience at the linebacker position is limited, requiring further development in the nuances of off-ball linebacker play.
Draft Prospects and Panthers’ Interest
Styles is projected to be a first-round pick in the upcoming draft. His unique combination of athletic ability, intelligence, and college production make him a hot prospect. Many believe he will play early in his NFL career, with experience on special teams boosting his value.
The Carolina Panthers have a history of transforming safeties into successful off-ball linebackers, as seen with Thomas Davis. Styles could thrive under conditions similar to those experienced by past Panthers greats. With the current coaching staff’s stability, including insights gained from former players like Dan Morgan, Thomas Davis, and Luke Kuechly, Styles would benefit immensely.
Conclusion
If Sonny Styles remains available during the Panthers’ 2026 NFL Draft selection, he could be an excellent choice. Fans will be keen to see how the team approaches this decision. Should they prioritize a talented linebacker with a promising future? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
