Wagner, who turned 35 this summer, delivered another strong season for the Commanders in 2025 but is approaching an age where a long-term plan is prudent. The idea is to prepare for life after Wagner with a top-tier replacement.
Podell highlights Styles as a modern inside linebacker, noting his safety-to-linebacker transition has prepared him for seamless pass coverage, including staying with slot receivers and tight ends from sideline to sideline. He also praises Styles’ length, range in the run and pass games, and his ability to pressure in blitzes.
In college, Styles posted 82 tackles, 6.5 coming on for a loss, three pass defenses, one sack, and one interception over 14 games in 2024. During Ohio State’s 2024 national championship run, he tallied 100 tackles, 10.5 TFL, and six sacks, underscoring his versatile impact.
While Styles would address the linebacker vacancy, the Commanders would likely still prioritize edge rushing help. Washington’s top sack producer in 2025 was 36-year-old Von Miller, and mock drafts have linked the team to edge players such as Rueben Bain Jr. from Miami.
NFL evaluators, including Lance Zierlein, have compared Styles to Fred Warner, noting his emerging traits and versatility could boost his stock as the draft approaches. The projection of Styles to Washington reflects a desire to inject immediate youth and playmaking at inside linebacker.
If this scenario unfolds, the Commanders would gain a ready-made heir apparent for Wagner who could grow into a long-term cornerstone on defense, aligning with the team’s broader strategy of building through the 2026 draft class.
