League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Sonny Styles enters 2026 season as projected defensive rookie of the year

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 10:31 AM

Last updated Sep 6, 2026

Sonny Styles enters 2026 season as projected defensive rookie of the year

Summary

Washington Commanders linebacker Sonny Styles is currently favored to win the 2026 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. Selected seventh overall in the draft from Ohio State, Styles demonstrated high pressure rates on blitzes and a low missed-tackle percentage during his collegiate career. Analysts project the linebacker could finish his debut professional season with 129 total tackles. The Commanders have previously seen players earn rookie of the year honors, including Jayden Daniels and Chase Young within the last six years. Styles appeared in two preseason games for Washington ahead of the upcoming regular season opener. The Commanders begin their 2026 schedule next Sunday on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles.

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By the Numbers

•Sonny Styles is the No. 7 overall draft pick out of Ohio State.
•Analysts project a 129-tackle debut season for the Commanders linebacker.
•The Commanders open the 2026 season against the Philadelphia Eagles next Sunday.
•Arvell Reese and Dillon Thieneman are also cited as top defensive rookie contenders.

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