The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine produced several standout performances, but few players made a bigger impact than Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles.
With historic jumping numbers, elite speed, and rare size for the position, Styles has quickly become one of the biggest risers in the draft class and is now firmly in the conversation for a top-10 selection.
A Historic Athletic Performance in Indianapolis
Sonny Styles delivered one of the most impressive combine performances ever recorded for a linebacker. His testing numbers showed a rare mix of size, power, and explosiveness.
Sonny Styles Combine Measurements & Results
| Category | Result |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’5” |
| Weight | 244 lbs |
| Vertical Jump | 43.5 inches |
| Broad Jump | 11 feet 2 inches |
| 40-yard dash | 4.46 seconds |
| Arm Length | 32½ inches |
Record-Breaking Explosion
Styles’ 43.5-inch vertical jump was:
- The second-best ever for a linebacker at the NFL Combine
- The best vertical ever by a player weighing over 240 pounds
- The highest vertical recorded for any player 6’4” or taller since 2003
His 11’2” broad jump also led all linebackers this year and ranks among the best at the position in modern combine history.
These numbers confirmed what scouts already believed — Styles is one of the most explosive athletes in the entire draft.
Read more: NFL Draft 2026 : Top Prospects
Elite Speed for His Size
Styles followed his jumping performance with a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, tying for the fastest time among linebackers this year.
For a player standing 6’5” and 244 pounds, that speed gives him:
- True sideline-to-sideline range
- Ability to cover tight ends and running backs
- Explosiveness as a blitzer and downhill defender
This rare combination of size and speed makes him a modern NFL linebacker built for today’s fast-paced game.
Combine Winner: Stock Rising Fast
Styles entered the week projected as a mid-to-late first-round pick, but his performance changed the conversation.
Why His Stock Is Rising
- Verified elite athleticism
- Ideal NFL size for a linebacker
- Production and leadership at Ohio State
- Ability to impact run defense, coverage, and pass rush
Analysts now believe he could move into the top 10, which would make him the first Ohio State linebacker selected that high since 2006.
Ohio State’s Defensive Duo Shines
The combine also highlighted Ohio State’s strong defensive class. Styles and teammate Arvell Reese both impressed, tying for the fastest linebacker 40 time.
Their performances helped position both players among the top defensive prospects in the 2026 draft.
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What Makes Sonny Styles Special
Physical Traits
- Rare height and length for the position
- Elite explosion and lower-body power
- High-end speed for a 240+ pound defender
On-Field Value
- Can play multiple linebacker roles
- Effective in coverage and run support
- Strong blitzer with closing speed
- Fits modern hybrid defensive schemes
NFL teams value linebackers who can stay on the field for all three downs, and Styles checks that box.
Draft Outlook: Top-10 in Sight
With the combine behind him, Sonny Styles has:
- Confirmed his elite athletic profile
- Eliminated any doubts about his speed or explosiveness
- Positioned himself among the top defensive prospects
If teams prioritize size, versatility, and elite athletic traits at linebacker, Styles could hear his name called early on draft night.
Read more: 2026 NFL Mock Draft Full First Round
The 2026 NFL Combine confirmed what scouts hoped to see — Sonny Styles is not just a talented linebacker, but an elite athlete with game-changing potential. With historic testing numbers and ideal size for today’s NFL, he has firmly placed himself among the top defensive players in the draft and could become one of the earliest linebackers selected this year.
