The mandatory minicamp typically revolves around creating first impressions, butSonny Styles has been leaving lasting second impressions already.
The first-round linebacker for theWashington Commanders, drafted seventh overall in the NFL draft of April 24, 2026, has shown that he is not just meeting, but exceeding expectations from Ashburn. Even more impressive is that he has started gaining the trust of his teammates already.
Dan Quinn Sees Jayden Daniels Like Poise In Sonny Styles
Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Quinn spoke with the media on Day 1 of the mandated minicamp on June 17, and he made a revealing comment regarding Styles’ adaptation to professional football.
The coach complimented the defensive understanding of the player while noting that Styles is as cool under pressure as franchise QB Jayden Daniels, another promising youngster in Quinn’s eyes.
“He’s very in control… you can tell he’s put the work in.”
Dan Quinn sees a striking similarity between Jayden Daniels and Sonny Styles. 🤫👇
During today's presser for Day 1 of minicamp, HC Dan Quinn highlighted Styles’ calm on-field demeanor, comparing his poise to JD5.
"He's very in control… you can tell he's put the work in."… pic.twitter.com/d4kkemvynQ
— SleeperCommanders (@SleeperWSH) June 16, 2026
That is not just a throwaway compliment. Styles has already taken reps wearing the green-dot helmet, which allows him to relay defensive calls and make adjustments before the snap. For a rookie LB learning a new scheme under first-year defensive coordinator Daronte Jones, it is a significant responsibility.
So far, the former Ohio State standout looks comfortable carrying the load.
Quinn said Styles has checked every box during the offseason program, pointing to his preparation, communication, and intensity. The 6-foot-5 linebacker has been hard to miss on the practice field. His size and nearly 33-inch arms jump out immediately, however, coaches have been even more impressed by how quickly he’s processing information.
Styles credits Jones for making the transition easier.
“The way he teaches information, it’s easy to digest.”
“If you like to run, hit and play fast, this is the perfect defense for you.” (ViaCommandersWire)
That description fits Styles perfectly. A former safety who shifted to LB at Ohio State, Styles built his reputation on versatility. He can cover tight ends, attack downhill against the run, and pressure quarterbacks from multiple alignments.
Those traits make him an ideal fit in Jones’ disguise-heavy system. The real test will come when the pads go on in training camp, something Styles acknowledged himself. However, through the spring, the rookie has looked every bit like the centerpiece Washington envisioned when it made him one of the first defenders off the board.
If Quinn’s early endorsement is any indication, the Commanders may already have their defensive quarterback.