Sonny Styles. If you’re even remotely into Ohio State football, you’ve probably heard the name. He’s gone from his roots in Pickerington, Ohio, all the way to the NFL—no small feat.
This story follows Styles’ path: his upbringing in a football-obsessed family, his growth as a player, and the kind of work ethic that gets you noticed. There’s insight from his dad, Lorenzo Styles Sr., and from his mentor James Laurinaitis. All of it kind of proves that, yeah, dedication and adaptability really matter.
Early Beginnings and Family Influence
Pickerington, Ohio, is where it all started for Sonny Styles. Football was everywhere.
His father, Lorenzo Styles Sr., played linebacker at Ohio State and then in the NFL. The guy practically wrote the family playbook.
Sonny and his brother Lorenzo Styles Jr. grew up playing football with neighborhood kids. Those backyard games? That’s where Sonny sharpened his skills and really started to love the sport.
As Sonny got older, his dad gave him advice that stuck: *You have these big dreams, but you have to separate yourself.* That line became Sonny’s north star.
High School Stardom
At Pickerington Central, Sonny’s high school career was wild—in a good way. He was a five-star prospect, standing out even among a stacked roster.
All that work paid off. Next stop: Ohio State, where he’d keep leveling up.
Ohio State Journey: From Safety to Linebacker
Sonny started out at Ohio State playing safety. Sophomore year, 2023—he split the nickel role with Jordan Hancock, then moved to a deeper safety spot after an injury.
Junior season is where things got interesting. Styles switched to linebacker, thanks in part to a push from Scarlet and Gray linebackers coach James Laurinaitis.
Laurinaitis—he’s a three-time All-American at Ohio State and played in the NFL—saw something in Sonny. He encouraged the move.
With a 6-foot-4, 235-pound frame, Sonny leaned into the challenge. He worked closely with Laurinaitis and his dad to really learn the linebacker position.
The Impact of Mentorship
Sonny’s quick to credit both his father and Laurinaitis for their support. Laurinaitis was there every day at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, while Lorenzo Sr. broke down film with him at home.
Laurinaitis even told Sonny he could be a first-round pick. That kind of belief? It’s a motivator.
Draft Day and NFL Aspirations
All that work led to Styles getting picked No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders. At his first NFL press conference, he sounded genuinely excited and ready to get to work.
It’s a big leap, but if anyone’s prepared for it, it’s probably him.
Preparing for the NFL
Even with a strong college resume, Sonny’s not coasting. He knows there’s a ton left to learn.
With only two seasons as a linebacker under his belt, he’s focused on refining his skills and making the most of his shot in the NFL.
Ohio State’s Defensive Legacy
Styles’ story is part of a bigger picture at Ohio State. The Buckeyes have had the nation’s top statistical defense for two years running.
In the 2026 NFL Draft, two other defenders—Arvell Reese and Caleb Downs—were also picked in the top 11. That’s a statement about the program’s defensive chops.
Adapting to the NFL Environment
Sonny’s used to being part of a strong team culture. He says offseason training, building relationships, and keeping a winning mindset are key.
He figures the like-minded vibe at Ohio State will help him adjust to life with the Washington Commanders. Seems reasonable, right?
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sonny Styles
Sonny Styles is just getting started on his NFL journey. He’s keeping his feet on the ground and his eyes on the bigger picture.
Sure, making it to the NFL is a huge milestone, but for Styles, it’s not the finish line. There’s still a mountain of work ahead, and he knows it.
He’s got those rare physical tools, a serious work ethic, and a crew of mentors in his corner. That combo puts him in a great spot to make waves in the league—at least, that’s the hope.
If you want to dig deeper into Sonny Styles’ path and how he’s handling this next step, check out the full story at 247Sports.
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