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Sonny Styles Emerges as Top Linebacker Option for Bengals in 2026 NFL Draft
Ohio State standout's monster NFL Combine performance boosts his draft stock as Cincinnati looks to upgrade defense.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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The Cincinnati Bengals are in need of defensive upgrades, especially at the linebacker position after struggling against the run last season. Ohio State's Sonny Styles has emerged as a potential top-10 pick for the Bengals after a standout performance at the 2026 NFL Combine, where he showcased his elite athleticism and instincts that could make him an immediate impact player in the NFL.
Why it matters
The Bengals' defense was a major weakness in 2025, allowing the most rushing yards per game in the league. Upgrading the linebacker corps is crucial to shoring up the run defense and competing in the AFC North against elite running backs like Derrick Henry. Styles' combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability could make him an ideal fit to anchor Cincinnati's defense for years to come.
The details
Styles recorded 83 total tackles, 46 solo, with a sack, forced fumble, and interception in his final season at Ohio State. At the Combine, he ran a 4.46 40-yard dash, had a 43.5-inch vertical, and displayed excellent technique in drills, shedding blocks and reacting quickly. His ability to diagnose plays and stop the run would be a major boost for a Bengals defense that struggled mightily against the run in 2025.
- Sonny Styles had a monster performance at the 2026 NFL Combine in March.
- The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April.
The players
Sonny Styles
A standout linebacker from Ohio State University who is projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after his impressive combine performance.
Germaine Pratt
A former linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals who left the team a few years ago.
Logan Wilson
A linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals whose play has declined in recent years.
Barrett Carter
A rookie linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals who struggled in 2025.
Demetrius Knight Jr.
A rookie linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals who struggled in 2025.
What they’re saying
“Sonny Styles' draft stock continues to rise up day after day, and it's not surprising for him to be drafted way earlier than #10.”
— Gerard Angelo Samillano, Author (clutchpoints.com)
What’s next
The Bengals will have to wait and see if Sonny Styles is still available when they pick 10th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. His impressive combine performance has boosted his draft stock, and he may now be selected earlier than expected.
The takeaway
Upgrading the linebacker position is a top priority for the Bengals this offseason, and Sonny Styles could be the perfect fit with his combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability. If he's still on the board at #10, Cincinnati should not hesitate to add the Ohio State standout to their defense.
