When you think about positions teams realistically target in the top five of the 2026 NFL draft, off-ball linebacker typically isn’t one of them. However, the New York Giants might ignore that belief.
That’s because, per ESPN’s Jordan Reid, who cited league sources, the Giants “wouldn’t be shy about drafting an off-ball linebacker” with the No. 5 pick.
Because of that approach, it’s possible the Giants come away with Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles when they’re on the clock, Reid says.
“Talking to league sources, the Giants wouldn’t be shy about drafting an off-ball linebacker at No. 5, making Styles a real possibility at that spot as Jordan alluded to above,” Reid reported.
Do the Giants need a linebacker?
Credit: Mark J. Rebilas – Imagn Images
Linebacker is definitely a position the Giants could add to.
New York is currently slated to start Tremaine Edmunds, who was cut by the Bears before signing a three-year, $36 million contract with New York, and Micah McFadden, who is only on a one-year deal and hardly a long-term piece.
But the Giants wouldn’t just be adding a third wheel.
Styles is a legit blue-chip prospect with superstar potential who could anchor the Giants’ defense for the next decade.
If the Giants are going best player available at No. 5, which they should be given the fact this team still has one foot over the rebuild line, Styles could be the pick.
Sonny Styles scouting report
Styles is widely viewed as one of the best players in the entire 2026 NFL draft, regardless of position and earned that recognition despite playing on a loaded Buckeyes defense during his college career.
Styles does just about everything well. His Pro Football Focus grades of 87.8 and 87.4 in run defense and coverage, respectively, show he’s a well-rounded player. Styles isn’t the best pass-rusher, but he can still be a problem in that area.
Then, there’s the leadership qualities. A former captain, Styles wore the green dot at Ohio State and would likely assume that role with the Giants at some point, although he won’t need to right away with Edmunds in the fold.
Out of all the players in this year’s draft class, Styles is best equipped to make an immediate impact, and that’s something head coach John Harbaugh will no doubt want given his desire to be a playoff team in Year 1.
