Titans Eyeing Versatile Linebacker Sonny Styles in NFL Draft

Former GM Ran Carthon believes new coach Robert Saleh is targeting the Ohio State standout with the 4th overall pick.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:48pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a linebacker making a tackle, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange representing the raw physicality and multi-dimensional skills required for the position.A cubist interpretation of a hard-hitting linebacker illustrates the Titans' need for a versatile defensive playmaker in the 2026 NFL Draft.Today in Nashville

Ran Carthon, the former general manager of the Tennessee Titans, believes the team's new coach Robert Saleh and current GM Mike Borgonzi are eyeing Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles with the 4th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Carthon thinks Styles' ability to cover receivers and do everything Saleh wants from a middle linebacker makes him an ideal target for the Titans.

Why it matters

The Titans are looking to upgrade their linebacker corps after a disappointing 2025 season, and Sonny Styles' versatile skillset could be a perfect fit for new head coach Robert Saleh's defensive scheme. As a top-5 draft pick, Styles' selection would be a major move that could significantly impact the Titans' fortunes next season.

The details

Ran Carthon, the former Titans GM, believes Saleh and Borgonzi are eyeing Styles because he can fill a key need at middle linebacker. Carthon says "The one thing Saleh does not have right now is that middle linebacker that can cover and do everything he wants them to do," and he thinks Styles fits that bill perfectly.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Ran Carthon

The former general manager of the Tennessee Titans.

Robert Saleh

The new head coach of the Tennessee Titans.

Mike Borgonzi

The current general manager of the Tennessee Titans.

Sonny Styles

A standout linebacker prospect from Ohio State University who is expected to be a top-5 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“The one thing Saleh does not have right now is that middle linebacker that can cover and do everything he wants them to do.”

— Ran Carthon, Former Titans GM

What’s next

The Titans will have the 4th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on April 24-26, 2026, where they are expected to target linebacker Sonny Styles if he is still available.

The takeaway

The Titans are looking to bolster their linebacker corps with a versatile playmaker, and Sonny Styles could be the perfect fit for new head coach Robert Saleh's defensive scheme. As a potential top-5 draft pick, Styles' selection would be a major move that could significantly impact the Titans' fortunes next season.