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Commanders Draft Ohio State LB Sonny Styles at No. 7
24 Apr
Summary
- Commanders selected linebacker Sonny Styles with the seventh pick.
- Styles was a first-team All-American in his final college season.
- The team chose Styles over safety Caleb Downs, a division rival.

In the 2026 NFL Draft, the Washington Commanders selected Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles with the seventh overall pick, addressing a critical need on their defense. Styles was a top target for Washington, with head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters attending Ohio State's Pro Day to evaluate him.
Styles demonstrated exceptional performance in his final college season, recording 100 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and six sacks. His accolades include being named a first-team All-American and a co-captain for the national championship-winning Buckeyes.
The Commanders' decision to draft Styles over safety Caleb Downs led to some fan debate, especially after the Dallas Cowboys traded up to select Downs, making him an immediate division rival for Washington.