The comparison is bold, but it’s not coming out of nowhere. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, one of the most intriguing questions is whether Sonny Styles has the tools to follow the same path-and deliver the same kind of impact-as San Francisco 49ers superstar Fred Warner.

For teams like the New York Jets, who hold the No. 2 overall pick, the decision could define the next era of their defense. Styles isn’t just another highly rated linebacker prospect. He’s a rare athlete who checks every measurable box at an elite level.

At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the 6-foot-5, 244-pound defender turned heads with a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, a 1.56 10-yard split, a 43.5-inch vertical, and an 11-foot-2 broad jump. Those numbers didn’t just stand out-they placed him among the most explosive linebackers ever tested at the event.

A huge potential in the NFL

That athletic profile is a big reason why Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus made the comparison that’s now fueling this debate. He believes Styles has “Fred Warner-type impact” potential, which is significant considering Warner has become one of the most complete defensive players in the NFL.

Warner‘s value comes from his ability to do everything. He can cover sideline to sideline, diagnose plays instantly, drop into coverage like a defensive back, and still be a physical presence against the run. That versatility is exactly what modern defenses prioritize, especially as offenses become more dynamic and pass-heavy.

Styles brings a similar foundation, though his path has been unique. At Ohio State Buckeyes, he began his career as a safety before transitioning to linebacker. That background shows up on film. He moves differently than most players at his position, with fluid hips and range that allow him to match up against tight ends and running backs in space.

Styles can impact every level of the defense

Production hasn’t been an issue either. Over four seasons, Styles appeared in 53 games, recording 244 tackles, 22.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks, nine pass deflections, an interception, and three forced fumbles. Those numbers reflect a player who can impact every level of the defense, not just one phase of the game.

The Warner comparison also invites a broader conversation about positional value. Traditionally, off-ball linebackers haven’t been prioritized near the top of the draft. Warner himself was selected in the third round back in 2018, a decision that now looks like one of the biggest steals of that class. If teams were to redo that draft today, it’s hard to imagine him falling outside the top three.

That hindsight is part of what makes Styles such a fascinating evaluation. If a prospect truly has the potential to anchor a defense the way Warner does, passing on him becomes far more difficult-even for positions typically viewed as more premium, like edge rusher or wide receiver. Still, not everyone is convinced the Jets-or any team picking that high-will go in that direction.