"When I evaluate Sonny Styles, the Ohio State linebacker, for fit on the Dallas Cowboys, I'm not going into this thinking he is a throwback linebacker. We all know Dallas doesn't need that type of linebacker, but what they do need is a second-level defender who can survive in space, communicate, and stay on the field in sub-packages. Styles will check those boxes. This is a modern WILL linebacker who fits where the Cowboys' defense is headed, not where we saw it last season."
"Styles processes quickly and plays calm. You don't see panic when routes cross his face or when the quarterback manipulates him with his eyes. He understands spacing in zone and doesn't leave windows trying to chase plays that aren't his responsibility. That's critical in a future modern Dallas' scheme, where linebackers could be asked to pass off routes and comminucate adjustments rather than freelance, like we watched to many times. His NFL pedigree shows up here."
Sonny Styles projects as a modern WILL linebacker who fits a space-oriented Dallas defense rather than a throwback run-focused role. He measures about 6'4" with a hitting weight listed between 222 and 243 pounds, showing notable length and above-average movement for the position. He appears to have room to add functional mass without losing agility. He processes plays quickly, stays calm against route manipulation, understands zone spacing, and avoids chasing plays outside his responsibility. He displays reliable underneath coverage versus tight ends and running backs and should provide communication and sub-package availability on defense.
Read at Inside The Star
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