Sonny Styles — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

Styles is a safety-turned-linebacker who can run, fill his run fits and offer plus cover talent. He's frequently compared to Fred Warner, which is about as big a compliment as you can get as an off-ball 'backer.

With the trade of Micah Parsons to the Packers giving the Cowboys two first-round picks, Dallas enters this draft with an edict to fix a porous defense that gave up the most points per game in the NFL this season (30.1). Styles is a quick fix at the second level with his sideline-to-sideline speed and range. The former safety has grown into an elite linebacker but maintained the ability to cover slot receivers and tight ends while working in phase down the field. He shot up boards after a well-rounded 2025 season in which he registered one sack, one interception and 83 tackles. The Cowboys could pair Styles with DeMarvion Overshown to form a speedy, dynamic and versatile linebacker duo.

Styles is a fast, physical linebacker who flies downhill and makes plays all over the field. He's tough enough to take on offensive linemen in the box, athletic enough to cover ground in space and smart enough to handle multiple roles across a defense. Whether he's blitzing, filling a gap or dropping into coverage, he plays with urgency, confidence and the kind of versatility coaches love.

If the Panthers can somehow stay at No. 19 and still get Styles, they should be jumping for joy. They have a big need at the second level of their defense, and Styles is good enough that he could go in the top 10 — although being a linebacker gives him a draft range in the top 20. He earned an 87.4 PFF run-defense grade and an 86.9 PFF coverage grade in 2025.

One of the most unique players in the draft, Styles is a 6-4, 243-pound linebacker who used to be a safety — and still runs like one. He brings coverage instincts, improved (and improving) work as a run fitter and a pretty fearless mindset. Styles could be the linebacker version of Seattle safety hybrid Nick Emmanwori.

The Cowboys need more speed and playmaking potential at linebacker. Styles is a freak athlete with the explosiveness to thrive as a sideline-to-sideline defender in a see ball, get ball scheme.

Styles reminds me of Fred Warner, who was drafted by the 49ers when current Commanders GM Adam Peters was an executive in San Francisco's front office. Keep in mind that Bobby Wagner is 35 and headed for free agency.