Introduction
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis has produced a number of elite athletic performances — but few have captured the attention of scouts, media, and draft analysts like Sonny Styles. The 6-foot-5, 244-pound linebacker from Ohio State University didn’t just test well — he exploded out of the gate with some of the most impressive athletic metrics ever recorded at his position.
From a vertical jump that rewrote the record books to a blistering 40-yard dash, Styles’ combine performance has dramatically elevated his draft stock and sparked national conversation. Let’s break down every key result, how it compares to past performances, and what this means for his potential at the professional level.
Sonny Styles Combine Results: The Numbers
Below is a complete breakdown of Sonny Styles’ 2026 NFL Combine performance — organized for easy reference:
Measurements
| Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Height | 6′5″ |
| Weight | 244 lbs |
| Hand Size | 10″ |
| Arm Length | 32 7/8″ |
| Wingspan | 80 7/8″ |
Speed & Agility
40-Yard Dash: 4.46 seconds — tied for the fastest among linebackers this year.
10-Yard Split: 1.56 seconds — elite burst out of the gate.
Broad Jump: 11′2″ — among the best broad jump marks for linebackers in combine history.
Vertical Jump: 43.5″ (Record-setting) — the highest vertical ever recorded by a linebacker and best among all prospects 6′4″+ since at least 2003.
Other Drills / Team Areas
While the official combine results emphasize measurable athletic performance, Styles also stood out during team drills and positional workouts, showcasing fluid footwork, explosion, and positional awareness — crucial traits for transitioning to the NFL.
Historic Combine Breakdown
Record-Breaking Vertical Jump
Sonny Styles’ 43.5-inch vertical leap isn’t just impressive — it makes history. Among linebackers who have tested at the NFL Combine, no one in the modern data era (since 2003) has recorded a higher vertical, especially at 6-foot-5 and 244 pounds.
To put it in context:
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It surpasses notable all-time verticals previously set by legendary position athletes.
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It highlights elite lower-body explosion — a trait linked to better tackling, coverage range, and pass-rushing burst.
Many analysts are calling this vertical jump one of the best position-athleticism performances in combine history — not just for linebackers, but across all defensive positions.
Elite Speed for Size
At over 240 pounds, Styles running a 4.46-second 40-yard dash is eye-opening. Typically, linebackers that weight run in the 4.6s to 4.7s, making Styles’ performance elite — especially when paired with his leap numbers.
This kind of speed combined with size signals a rare athletic profile that scouts and NFL personnel covet for modern defenses — especially in schemes that require linebackers to cover tight ends or running backs downfield.
Broad Jump Shows Explosiveness
At 11 feet, 2 inches, Styles also topped the broad jump leaderboard for linebackers — a drill that underscores hip extension, leg drive, and explosion from a static position. While not a record, this broad jump is among the best in combine history for his position group.
What This Means for Draft Stock
Sonny Styles entered the combine with first-round buzz — but his performance has likely *cemented his status as a potential top-10 selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Here’s why:
Combine Performance
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His athletic testing makes him one of the most explosive defensive prospects in recent memory.
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Scouts view Styles as a rare blend of size, speed, and explosion.
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Comparisons to elite linebacker prototypes — both in measurables and movement — are now commonplace among draft pundits.
Versatility
Styles has played both safety and linebacker in his career — a factor that NFL teams value for scheme flexibility and coverage responsibilities.
Position Coach Notes
Some scouts caution that unparalleled athleticism doesn’t always translate instantly into instinctive NFL play. Still, Styles’ measurables raise his floor significantly and project him to be a day-one contributor.
Comparing Sonny Styles’ Combine to Past Performers
| Player | Position | Vertical | 40-Yard Dash |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sonny Styles | LB | 43.5″ (Record) | 4.46 |
| Cameron Wake | LB/DE | 45.5″ | N/A |
| Nick Emmanwori | Safety | 43″ | ~4.4sh |
| Typical LB | LB | 34-38″ | 4.6-4.8 |
This comparison puts Styles in the upper echelon of athletic performers historically — not just for linebackers, but across defensive skill positions.
Beyond the Combine: What Scouts See
Analysts appreciate that measurable performance is only part of the evaluation — but in Styles’ case, his on-field athleticism backs up his tape. Some scouts see him as:
- A coverage-upgrade linebacker
- A versatile defender in multiple fronts
- A game-changer in sub packages
His rare combination of height, speed, and explosion is often compared to modern NFL playmakers — which positions him well for early draft consideration.
Impact on Team Draft Boards
Based on today’s reporting:
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Sonny Styles has likely moved into the top 10 of multiple draft boards.
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Teams in need of elite athletic linebackers will view him as a blue-chip prospect.
His combine numbers could even push some teams to trade up to secure him on draft night.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Sonny Styles’ vertical jump at the combine?
Answer: Sonny Styles recorded a 43.5-inch vertical jump, the highest ever by a linebacker and the best vertical by any player 6′4″ or taller since at least 2003.
How fast did Sonny Styles run the 40-yard dash?
Answer: Styles officially ran a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, tying him for the fastest time among linebackers at the 2026 combine.
What is his broad jump result?
Answer: Sonny posted an 11′2″ broad jump, ranking among the best ever for his position group.
Why are these combine numbers significant?
Answer: These numbers demonstrate elite explosiveness, speed, and overall athleticism, traits crucial for coverage, tackling range, and positional versatility at the NFL level.
Does Sonny Styles have a chance to go in the top 10 of the draft?
Answer: Yes — based on today’s combine performance and analyst projections, he is widely expected to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Conclusion
Sonny Styles’ 2026 NFL Combine performance will be remembered as one of the most athletic showings in recent memory — especially for a linebacker his size. From shattering vertical jump records to blazing through the 40-yard dash, Styles has displayed a rare physical profile that could transform his draft trajectory.
As teams finalize their boards ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, one thing is clear: Sonny Styles has arrived on the national stage — and he’s more than ready for the next level.
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