Sonny Styles, a linebacker for Ohio State football, says he will return for his senior year in 2025.

In the world of college football, decisions about players’ futures often come with a blend of anticipation and speculation. For Ohio State fans, one of the most anticipated decisions in recent memory was that of Sonny Styles, the standout linebacker for the Buckeyes. After a phenomenal career at Ohio State, which has seen him rise from a promising recruit to one of the team’s most impactful players, Styles made a major announcement in 2025: he would return for his senior season. This announcement sent ripples of excitement through the Buckeye community, as the prospect of having one of the nation’s most talented linebackers for another year promises to bring a new level of intensity to the Buckeyes’ defense and to Ohio State football as a whole.

A Rising Star: The Path to Ohio State

Sonny Styles’ journey to Ohio State football wasn’t one that could have been predicted by many, though it’s become clear that his talent and determination were always leading him to this moment. Hailing from the Columbus area, Styles had the advantage of playing in his hometown, but his rise to prominence began with his natural ability to play football at a level few could match. From a young age, Styles displayed a rare combination of speed, intelligence, and strength that would make him one of the nation’s top recruits by the time he finished high school.

By the time he was a senior at high school, Styles was widely regarded as one of the top linebackers in the country. His ability to track the ball, his high football IQ, and his physicality were characteristics that immediately caught the attention of college scouts. At 6-foot-4, 220 pounds, Styles had the perfect frame for a linebacker in today’s college football game. He wasn’t just a force in the run game but also a versatile player who could cover the pass, giving him a well-rounded skill set that fit perfectly in Ohio State’s defensive scheme.

His high school career culminated in a commitment to Ohio State, where he had the opportunity to stay close to home and be a part of a historic program. Buckeye fans quickly took notice of Styles’ potential, and his arrival on campus was highly anticipated. The decision to keep the local talent within the Buckeye State was a testament to the program’s ability to land top recruits, and it felt like a personal victory for Ohio State.

Breaking Out at Ohio State

After a successful start to his career, Styles became an instant impact player for Ohio State. Despite being a freshman, his physicality and game intelligence stood out immediately. Early in his career, it became clear that Styles wasn’t going to be an ordinary linebacker. His ability to cover a wide range of ground, his effectiveness in blitz packages, and his leadership skills made him a staple of Ohio State’s defense, even at a young age.

As a sophomore, Styles really began to emerge as one of the most talented linebackers in the country. His name was being mentioned in the same breath as some of the nation’s top defensive players, and his presence on the field became undeniable. Whether it was making crucial stops in the run game, pressuring the quarterback, or covering receivers in the passing game, Styles had it all.

He had earned the trust of head coach Ryan Day and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, who recognized his immense talent and versatility. Under their guidance, Styles became more refined as a player, continuing to improve every aspect of his game. By the end of his sophomore season, Styles was already considered one of the best linebackers in the Big Ten, if not the country.

The Decision to Return for His Senior Year

As the 2025 season drew near, the question on every Ohio State fan’s mind was whether Sonny Styles would return for his senior year or declare for the NFL Draft. His stock was high—he was expected to be one of the top linebackers in the draft if he chose to leave school early. Many experts predicted that Styles would make the jump to the NFL, where his physical traits and playmaking ability would make him a high pick.

However, in a surprise announcement, Styles declared that he would return for his senior year at Ohio State. The decision sent waves of excitement through the Buckeye faithful, who immediately began envisioning a defense with one of the best linebackers in the country leading the charge for another season.

Why Return?

For many, the question of why Sonny Styles would return for his senior year after such an outstanding start to his career is a fair one. In an era where athletes increasingly turn to professional opportunities as soon as they become viable, returning for another year in college football isn’t always a common decision. Yet, Styles’ decision to stay reflects a deep sense of loyalty to his teammates, his coaches, and the Ohio State program as a whole.

One of the primary reasons for his return is likely his desire to help Ohio State win a national championship. While the Buckeyes have been in the mix for the College Football Playoff in recent years, they have yet to secure a national title since 2014. With Styles returning for another season, Ohio State’s defense is expected to be one of the best in the country. A chance to help lead the Buckeyes to a title while improving as a player may have been too tempting for Styles to pass up. His leadership on the field, combined with his continued development, could be the difference-maker for Ohio State in their quest for a championship.

Additionally, Styles’ decision may have been influenced by the desire to improve his draft stock. While he is already seen as a highly talented prospect, another year in college would give him the opportunity to refine his game, sharpen his skills, and potentially improve his draft position. The NFL is always looking for players who are ready to contribute immediately, and Styles understands the importance of continuing to develop as a player.

Lastly, the opportunity to further solidify his legacy at Ohio State may have played a role in his decision. For a player like Styles, who has already achieved so much at such a young age, having the chance to go out on top—by leading Ohio State to a national title and leaving behind a lasting legacy—must be an enticing prospect. He is on the fast track to becoming an Ohio State legend, and another year could cement his place in the Buckeyes’ storied history.

What Does His Return Mean for Ohio State?

Sonny Styles’ return for his senior year is a game-changer for Ohio State football. His leadership, physicality, and versatility bring immense value to the team. As the leader of the defense, Styles will be tasked with helping to guide the Buckeyes through a competitive Big Ten schedule and a grueling College Football Playoff journey.

With his return, Ohio State’s defense will be anchored by one of the best linebackers in college football. His presence on the field will allow defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to be more creative with his defensive schemes, knowing that Styles can handle a wide variety of responsibilities. Whether it’s stopping the run, rushing the passer, or covering receivers, Styles’ ability to do it all makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses. His return gives Ohio State the confidence to go toe-to-toe with any offense in the country.

In addition to his on-field impact, Styles’ leadership in the locker room will be invaluable. As a senior, he will play a critical role in mentoring the younger players, helping them adjust to the physical and mental demands of college football. His experience and success over the past few seasons make him a valuable resource for younger linebackers and defensive players who are looking to develop into stars in their own right.

The Impact on the 2025 Season

With Styles returning, Ohio State’s 2025 season has even more potential to be special. The Buckeyes already boast a talented roster, but with Styles leading the defense, their chances of making a serious run at the national title improve significantly. His ability to disrupt offenses, make big plays, and set the tone for the rest of the defense gives Ohio State a weapon that few other teams in the country have.

Moreover, Styles’ return may also impact the recruitment of future Buckeye players. Having a player of his caliber stay for another year sends a message to recruits that Ohio State is not only a place where you can develop and reach the NFL but also a place where you can make a lasting impact on the program. Recruits will see that Styles is putting the team first and prioritizing winning a national title, and they will want to be a part of that journey.