The Washington Commanders' rookie minicamp is buzzing with excitement, and all eyes are on Sonny Styles. The former Ohio State standout has drawn comparisons to some of the NFL's all-time greats, setting the stage for what could be a remarkable career.
During a conversation with Mike Sando of The Athletic, an anonymous NFL executive likened Styles to Hall of Fame linebacker Brian Urlacher. "He's 6-5, 240 pounds, gonna run a 4.4. Really smart, makes all the calls, very instinctive, and has some untapped pass-rush ability," the exec said. "He was top-five on our board all the way."
Another executive took a different angle, comparing Styles to the legendary Bobby Wagner—but with a serious speed upgrade. "He is Bobby Wagner, but bigger and faster. He has as good of traits for an inside 'backer that I have ever seen." That's high praise, especially considering Wagner's six first-team All-Pro selections and a Super Bowl ring.
Head coach Dan Quinn, however, isn't rushing to label Styles with anyone else's name. Instead, he sees shades of another Commanders icon: London Fletcher. "This is all about carving out his path, doing things the right way, and repaying the faith shown in him," Quinn emphasized.
Styles himself is embracing the legacy of the position. He chose jersey No. 52 as a nod to greats like Patrick Willis and Ray Lewis, understanding the weight of that number. "He recognizes the traditions and wants to add his name to the long list of prolific linebackers," noted one team insider. That mentality was just as important to the Commanders as his on-field gifts.
After signing a four-year rookie deal worth $37.2 million fully guaranteed, Styles wasted no time getting to work. Wearing No. 52—not the single digits popular among many modern linebackers—he turned heads throughout minicamp practice. His athleticism, explosiveness, and controlled aggression were on full display, validating Washington's comprehensive pre-draft assessments.
Videos from the session have since gone viral, showing Styles moving with the fluidity of a safety and the power of a defensive end. For a team looking to rebuild its defensive identity, this might be the spark they've been waiting for. As for what Jayden Daniels has to prove in 2026? That's a story for another day—right now, all the hype is on Styles.