Sonny Styles has been a major piece of Ohio State‘s makeup since joining the program in the 2022 recruiting class. Now, after a breakthrough season at linebacker, Styles is poised to run it back for one more season after helping capture a national title.

“This was a dream season. Here in Columbus, my teammates, coaches and training staff accomplished exactly what we said we would,” wrote Styles on social media. “It’s an honor to play for the Ohio State, and I’m not done yet. I’m here to stay. Let’s run it back.”

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Even after a breakout 100-tackle season for the Buckeyes, Styles’ decision to come back for his senior season makes a bit of sense. Originally a member of the 2023 recruiting class, the 5-star prospect re-classified and joined Ohio State a year early in 2022.

After spending the 2022 and 2023 seasons as a hybrid safety and linebacker, Sonny Styles blossomed into a full-time linebacker role alongside Cody Simon this season. Styles was 2nd on the team with 100 tackles and finished 4th on the team with 6 sacks and 3rd with 11 tackles for loss.

While Styles moved to linebacker full time, his versatile skillset was still on full display. He recorded 5 pass defenses and will be back as a major leader for the Ohio State defense in 2025.

It’s no secret Ohio State will need to replace some veteran pieces heading into next season. Keeping Styles in the middle of the unit is a major plus for the program.