Former coach Mike Smith defends Commanders rookie linebacker Sonny Styles

Washington Commanders linebacker Sonny Styles prepares for his NFL debut this Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. Ahead of the road opener, former NFL head coach Mike Smith issued a public defense of the rookie regarding criticism of his preseason performance. Online scrutiny intensified after a 50-yard touchdown run by Detroit Lions quarterback Joshua Dobbs, where Styles was on the field. Head coach Dan Quinn clarified that the play breakdown resulted from a failure to maintain defensive contain rather than a mistake by the linebacker. Smith emphasized that Styles is navigating a transition from safety to the NFL linebacker position while learning a new scheme. The Commanders debut concludes a preseason period where the staff prioritized playing through mistakes.

• 12:40 PMYahoo Sports — Former NFL Coach of the Year defends Sonny Styles