Scouting Journals for Sonny Styles

A unique defensive prospect with the size, athleticism and movement skills to potentially make plays at all three levels of a defense. Combines 6-foot-4, 220-pound size with top-flight athleticism. Posted combine numbers that are better than many top defensive backs and wide receivers – some of the best marks we saw during the spring camp circuit. Athleticism transfers over to the field where he makes “wow” plays at a high rate. Plays at safety for his high school and is a smooth, fluid mover in space. Has movement patterns that belie his size. Shows deep range at safety with the ability to play hash to boundary. Makes plays on the ball at its highest point. Possesses some vicious striking power as a hitter and physical presence. Closes quickly and flashes the top-end speed on interception returns. Has blocked several kicks as a junior. Size, athleticism and coordination are unique and give him the ability to impact games as a defensive back, linebacker or potential pass rusher. Has the upside of being a true moveable chess piece for a defensive coordinator. Can continue to clean up his tackling technique. Doubles as an above-the-rim basketball player with mid-major offers on the hardwood.

Sonny Styles debuted as one of 10 five-star prospects in On3's initial Top 100 for the 2023 cycle. He's 6-foot-4, 220 pounds and has the athleticism and fluidity of a top defensive back prospect. Styles played safety his sophomore year at Pickerington (Ohio) Pickerington Central. He's a playmaker on the back end and helped the team to the state title game. We got to see his athleticism confirmed this spring. Styles ripped off a 4.67-second electronically-timed 40-yard dash and had a 126-inch broad jump at an Under Armour camp. For perspective, those numbers are better than what we have seen from the vast majority of top defensive back and wide receiver prospects.