Sonny Styles, a linebacker for Ohio State football, says he will return for his senior year in 2025.
In a move that has Buckeyes fans buzzing with excitement, Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles announced that he will return to the team for his senior year in 2025. Styles, a rising star in college football, has been a key contributor to Ohio State’s defense and is considered one of the top linebackers in the country. His decision to stay for another season represents a significant win for the program, as it not only strengthens the Buckeyes’ defense but also gives the team a leader on the field.
For a program like Ohio State, which has lofty goals every season, retaining talent like Styles is crucial to competing for national championships. His return is set to have a lasting impact on the team, especially as the Buckeyes look to solidify their defensive prowess in the face of tough competition in the Big Ten and on the national stage.
A Star in the Making: Sonny Styles’ Rise at Ohio State
Sonny Styles came to Ohio State with plenty of fanfare as a highly touted recruit out of Pickerington, Ohio, one of the top high school football players in the nation. As a recruit, he was known for his exceptional athleticism, versatility, and leadership, traits that immediately caught the attention of Buckeyes coaches. Styles committed to Ohio State as part of the 2023 class, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact on the field.
In his first two years at Ohio State, Styles established himself as one of the top young linebackers in the nation. His ability to diagnose plays, fly to the ball, and provide a physical presence in the middle of the defense set him apart from his peers. Even as a young player, he demonstrated maturity and intelligence beyond his years, which is rare for someone still adjusting to the college game.
As a sophomore in 2024, Styles blossomed into a key leader for Ohio State’s defense. His stat line was impressive, with standout performances against top-tier teams in the Big Ten. Whether it was stuffing the run, making crucial tackles in the open field, or providing leadership in the locker room, Styles’ impact was undeniable. His versatility allowed him to excel in a variety of roles, including playing both inside and outside linebacker positions. With his athleticism and speed, Styles also proved to be a weapon in pass coverage, giving Ohio State the flexibility to scheme against a variety of offenses.
One of the most telling signs of Styles’ growth was his ability to step up in big games. Whether it was against rivals like Michigan or in critical matchups during the Big Ten Championship, Styles was often at the heart of Ohio State’s defensive game plan. His ability to read offenses and make adjustments on the fly was key to the Buckeyes’ ability to contain high-powered offenses throughout the season.
The Decision to Return
While Styles’ development at Ohio State was impressive, there was speculation about whether he would declare for the NFL Draft following the 2024 season. With his physical tools, combined with his advanced football IQ and ability to make plays, many analysts had projected him as a potential early-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Given that he had already established himself as one of the top linebackers in college football, the question on the minds of Buckeyes fans was whether he would stay for his senior year or take the leap to the pros.
The announcement that Styles will return for his senior year in 2025 was a huge relief for Ohio State fans, and it has sent a ripple of excitement through the entire program. By returning, Styles not only strengthens the team’s defense but also signals his commitment to finishing what he started at Ohio State. His decision to return is about more than just football; it’s a testament to his desire to help the Buckeyes achieve their ultimate goal of winning a national championship.
But why would a player with such a high draft ceiling choose to stay? For Styles, the decision was likely about a few key factors: his growth as a player, his leadership role on the team, and the opportunity to help Ohio State achieve its championship aspirations. Staying for his senior year gives him the chance to further develop his skills and solidify his status as one of the premier linebackers in the nation, not just in college but also on the professional stage.
Furthermore, Styles may have felt a sense of responsibility to his teammates and the program. As a leader on the defense, he is in a prime position to help guide the younger players who will be stepping into more prominent roles in the coming years. For Styles, returning to Ohio State for his senior season allows him to continue building the culture of success that has defined the program under head coach Ryan Day.
What Sonny Styles Brings to Ohio State in 2025
With Sonny Styles returning for his senior year, Ohio State fans have every reason to be optimistic about the defense in 2025. Styles is not only a dynamic player but also an incredible leader who can set the tone for the defense. His presence on the field gives Ohio State a player who can be the anchor for a unit that is aiming to compete with the best teams in the country.
- Leadership on and off the Field: Styles has emerged as one of the key leaders for Ohio State, and his return will ensure continuity in the locker room. His maturity and poise, especially in high-pressure situations, will help the younger players on the team develop as well. The linebacker unit, in particular, will benefit from his mentorship, as Styles has the ability to teach his younger counterparts how to approach the game mentally and physically. His leadership will also help Ohio State’s defense stay focused and disciplined throughout the season.
- A Versatile Defensive Weapon: One of the most valuable assets Styles brings to Ohio State’s defense is his versatility. He has the ability to play multiple positions in the linebacker corps, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses. Whether Ohio State needs him to blitz the quarterback, cover running backs out of the backfield, or line up against tight ends in the passing game, Styles has the skills to excel in any situation. His ability to adapt to different schemes and roles gives defensive coordinator Jim Knowles the flexibility to be creative in how he deploys Styles, making the Buckeyes’ defense even more dangerous.
- Physicality and Playmaking Ability: Styles has been praised for his ability to make big plays when his team needs it most. His speed and aggressiveness allow him to close gaps quickly and make tackles in the open field. He is an excellent tackler who can stop the ball carrier in their tracks, but he is also capable of creating turnovers with timely forced fumbles or interceptions. Ohio State’s defense will need his playmaking ability to set the tone in games against high-scoring offenses in the Big Ten and beyond.
- A Chance to Improve and Refine His Game: While Styles has already developed into one of the best linebackers in college football, there is still room for growth. By returning for his senior year, he has the opportunity to refine his skills even further. Whether it’s improving his pass-rushing ability, honing his coverage skills, or becoming more of a vocal leader, Styles can continue to evolve as a player. The additional year in the Ohio State program will only enhance his stock for the NFL Draft, as scouts will be watching closely to see how he builds on his already impressive college career.
Ohio State’s 2025 Defense: A Championship-Caliber Unit
The return of Sonny Styles is a major boost to Ohio State’s aspirations for the 2025 season. With one of the best linebackers in the country back in the fold, the Buckeyes’ defense is set to be a force to be reckoned with. Ohio State’s defense was already in the process of improving under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, and having a player like Styles back for another season will make the unit even more formidable.
As the 2025 season approaches, Ohio State will be looking to return to the College Football Playoff and make a serious run at the national championship. With Styles anchoring the defense, the Buckeyes will have a cornerstone to build around. His return also sends a message to the rest of the Big Ten and the college football world: Ohio State is not just a powerhouse on offense but is also determined to be elite on defense.
For Sonny Styles, the decision to return for his senior year was one that will shape the future of his football career and the Ohio State program. With a clear goal in mind – to bring a national championship back to Columbus – Styles is ready to lead the Buckeyes to greatness in 2025. The best is yet to come.
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