Styles impresses at combine with 43½-inch vertical, second highest for LB since 2003
Sonny Styles has elevated his draft stock with a record-setting vertical jump, positioning himself as a top-10 prospect in the upcoming NFL draft.
Why it matters: The performance of Styles at the combine highlights the evolving expectations for linebackers in the NFL, where athleticism is increasingly valued alongside traditional football skills.
Styles recorded an impressive 43½-inch vertical jump, marking the highest by an off-ball linebacker since 2003 and the second highest overall among linebackers in the past two decades. This achievement not only showcases his explosive athletic ability but also enhances his appeal to teams looking for versatile defenders who can adapt to modern schemes.
By the numbers: His jump surpassed notable contemporaries and legends alike:
- Cameron Wake holds the record for the highest vertical jump by a linebacker at 45½ inches in 2005.
- Calvin Johnson, another athletic marvel, recorded a 42½-inch jump during his combine performance in 2007.
- Nick Emmanwori, who has drawn attention as an emerging safety with the Seahawks, achieved a 43-inch vertical jump in 2025.
What’s new: Alongside his vertical leap, Styles clocked a 4.46-second time in the 40-yard dash and achieved an 11-foot-2-inch broad jump, the best of all players that day.
This combination of speed and jumping ability makes Styles a compelling candidate for teams that deploy hybrid defensive systems, commonly seen in today’s NFL, which often require linebackers who can cover ground quickly while also being effective in pass coverage.
Yes, but: While athletic metrics are vital, they do not tell the complete story of a player's potential impact on the field.
- Styles played primarily as a middle linebacker for Ohio State, showcasing his understanding of the game and ability to read offenses, essential traits for success at the professional level.
- His teammate Arvell Reese matched Styles' 40-yard dash time, indicating a depth of talent in their position group at Ohio State.
What to watch: As teams finalize their draft boards, Styles' performance will likely propel him closer to the top of many lists.
His versatility was emphasized in a recent statement: "I think I would say that -- the great defenses you look at, there's at least two or three guys who can play a multitude of roles." This ability to fill different roles could make him particularly attractive to teams utilizing complex defensive schemes.
The bottom line: Sonny Styles’ remarkable combine performance has solidified his status as a top-tier linebacker prospect, blending size, speed, and athleticism, making him a highly coveted player in the upcoming NFL draft. With the growing demand for versatile defenders, his future looks promising as he transitions from college standout to potential NFL star.
