Will Commanders' defender win another rookie of the year award in 2026?

The Washington Commanders have previously seen success with both offensive and defensive rookies in recent years. Quarterback Jayden Daniels took home the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2024, while linebacker Chase Young won the Defensive Rookie of the Year title in 2020. As they look ahead to the 2026 season, fans are wondering if Washington can add yet another award-winning rookie to their roster.

Linebacker Sonny Styles, the No. 7 overall pick out of Ohio State, enters the NFL with much anticipation. After an All-American season and a standout performance at the NFL combine, Styles is generating significant buzz as a potential Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate. Washington will be keen to maximize Styles' abilities, particularly his pressure on opposing quarterbacks generated on 20% of his blitz opportunities at Ohio State.

His low missed-tackle rate among linebackers in the draft class also bodes well for his potential impact on the defensive side of the ball. ESPN's projections suggest Styles could finish the rookie year with 129 tackles, further bolstering his case for the award. While Styles is currently the frontrunner for the DROY, other former Ohio State teammates including Arvell Reese and Dillon Thieneman are also in the mix, along with Bears safety Caleb Downs.

The Commanders kick off their 2026 campaign against the Philadelphia Eagles next Sunday, and the prospects for Styles' performance could make him Washington's latest defensive award winner in the NFL.