The Styles family continues to dominate headlines at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, and this time it was Ohio State safety Lorenzo Styles Jr. who grabbed the attention. The defensive back delivered a stunning performance, clocking an official 4.27 seconds in the 40-yard dash, the fastest time by a safety in modern combine history.
His explosive speed has instantly elevated his profile and made him one of the biggest risers from the defensive back group.
Historic Speed Sets Combine Benchmark
Lorenzo Styles Jr. entered the speed drills with something to prove, and he delivered in style. After running identical unofficial times of 4.28 seconds on both attempts, his official mark was confirmed at 4.27 seconds.
THE STYLES BROTHERS ARE FLYING.@OhioStateFB S Lorenzo Styles Jr. and Sonny Styles' brother just ran a 4.28u.
— NFL (@NFL) February 27, 2026
2026 NFL Combine on @nflnetwork
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The time not only led all safeties but also stood as the fastest defensive back performance during the first two days of the combine. It is also among the fastest 40-yard dash times recorded across all positions in recent years.
Adding to the excitement, Styles even edged his younger brother Sonny Styles, who ran a strong 4.46 earlier in the week.
Strong All-Around Athletic Performance
While speed was the headline, Styles showed solid athletic ability in other areas as well.
| Drill | Result |
|---|---|
| 40-yard dash | 4.27 seconds |
| Vertical jump | 39 inches |
| Broad jump | Did not participate |
His vertical jump placed him near the top of the defensive back group, reinforcing his athletic upside even beyond straight-line speed.
Unique Path to the Secondary
Styles’ journey to the NFL has been different from many defensive prospects. He began his college career as a wide receiver at Notre Dame, where he recorded 54 receptions over two seasons.
After transferring to Ohio State, he made the transition to defensive back. Over three seasons with the Buckeyes, he totaled:
- 46 tackles
- 7 passes defended
- No interceptions
Despite modest production numbers, his athletic traits and versatility are now drawing serious attention from NFL teams.
Draft Outlook Improving After Combine
Before the combine, Lorenzo Styles Jr. was viewed as a potential Day 3 selection. However, his elite speed performance has significantly improved his stock.
If teams value his athletic upside and positional flexibility, there is growing belief that he could move into the late Day 2 conversation, potentially pushing into the third round.
Meanwhile, his younger brother Sonny Styles remains projected as a top-10 pick, making the combine a major success for the entire Styles family.
Football Runs in the Family
The Styles brothers are part of a strong football lineage. Their father, Lorenzo Styles Sr., played six seasons in the NFL and was a member of the Super Bowl XXXIV championship team.
Now, the next generation is making its mark, with both brothers emerging as major names ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
With elite speed now on record, Lorenzo Styles Jr. has given NFL scouts a clear reason to take a closer look. Teams searching for athletic defensive backs, special teams contributors, or hybrid coverage players may see strong long-term value.
As the combine continues and pro days approach, Styles has already done the most important thing — he has put his name firmly on the draft radar.
