Sonny Styles was frequently pegged as a top-five pick during the pre-draft process, but the Cardinals and the Titans both went in other directions at Nos. 3 and 4.
That left Styles’ Ohio State teammate Arvell Reese available to the Giants at No. 5, and they quickly swooped in to select the top-ranked player on their board. New York was one of the frequently-mocked destinations for Styles, but they preferred Reese’s versatility and upside as an edge rusher.
The Chiefs then traded up to the No. 6 pick, but for LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane. Styles then fell to the Commanders at No. 7, an outcome they were not expecting, per Bleacher Report’s James Palmer.
Washington was interested in trading back (thought not up) from No. 7, Palmer adds, and leapt at the opportunity to secure one of their favorite prospects in the draft.
Styles will immediately slot in as a starter in Daronte Jones’ new defense, likely partnered with free agent signing Leo Chenal. Frankie Luvu, who is entering the last of his contract, played significantly more time off the edge in 2025 relative to his previous time as an off-ball linebacker. He will likely have a bigger role as a pass rusher in 2026 with Styles working next Chenal.
The Commanders have no complaints about landing Styles, but they enter Day 2 of the draft having not addressed any of their major positions of need. Washington needs a center and could stand to add depth at tight end and running back as well. They do not pick until the third round at No. 71 overall after trading their second-rounder to the Texans last offseason for Laremy Tunsil.
I was bummed that both Dallas and Washington got my 2 favorite prospects in the draft (styles, Downs) really wasn’t hoping for that
Throw in Giants getting Reese as well. Eagles likely going up against some improved defenses next season.
Reese I’m not as worried about as Styles and Downs. Don’t get me wrong I think he’s gonna be a good player but I’m just super high on the other 2.