Updated: April 24, 2026
If you’re a college football fan tracking the 2026 NFL Draft, you’ve probably heard plenty about Sonny Styles—the standout Ohio State linebacker with elite size, speed, and instincts. But what about his older brother? Lorenzo Styles Jr. has been right there alongside him, carving out his own impressive path on the Buckeyes’ defense. These two aren’t just siblings; they’re teammates, competitors, and now, potential NFL draftees in the same class. Let’s dive into their story—it’s one of family legacy, brotherly rivalry, and pure athletic talent.
Table of Contents
The Styles Family Football Legacy
Football runs deep in the Styles bloodline. Their father, Lorenzo Styles Sr., was a star linebacker for the Ohio State Buckeyes in the early 1990s before enjoying a six-year NFL career, including a Super Bowl ring with the St. Louis Rams. Mom Laverna, a fellow Ohio State alum, has been the steady force cheering them on while building her own career in human resources.
The family includes two sisters—Tonia and Sydney—who both attended the University of Dayton. But the spotlight right now is on the brothers who followed in Dad’s footsteps to play for the Buckeyes. Growing up near Columbus in Pickerington, the Styles boys were destined for the Scarlet and Gray. Their dad often shares stories of the brotherhood at Ohio State, and now his sons are living it.
It’s a full-circle moment for the family. Laverna has joked about the pride (and chaos) of watching both sons dominate at the NFL Combine, where their speed turned heads and their bond shone through.
Who Is Sonny Styles’ Brother? Meet Lorenzo Styles Jr.
Lorenzo Styles Jr., born September 9, 2002, is the older brother by about two years. He started his college career at Notre Dame as a wide receiver before transferring to Ohio State in 2023 to join Sonny and switch to cornerback/safety roles. At 6-0 and around 194 pounds, Lorenzo brings versatility, quickness, and football IQ to the secondary.
He played key snaps in Ohio State’s 2024 national championship run and started alongside his brother on defense last season. While Sonny often grabs the headlines as a projected top-10 pick, Lorenzo has quietly built a solid resume. His journey shows resilience—switching positions, schools, and proving himself in the Big Ten.
The brothers have shared the field for three seasons, creating unforgettable moments for Buckeye fans. From joint tackles to sideline encouragement, their chemistry is undeniable.
Brotherly Competition and NFL Combine Highlights
Nothing captures the Styles brothers’ dynamic like their friendly (yet fierce) rivalry. At the 2026 NFL Combine, both turned in eye-popping performances:
- Sonny, the 6-5, 244-pound linebacker, wowed scouts with his athletic testing, jumps, and positional drills, solidifying his status as a potential early first-rounder.
- Lorenzo followed up by blazing a 4.27–4.28 second 40-yard dash—one of the fastest times for a safety in recent combine history. He even edged out Sonny in their head-to-head 40-yard simulcam race.
Their mother captured the moment perfectly, beaming with pride while adding humorous commentary on social media. The entire family showed up, turning the Combine into a Styles family reunion.
Beyond raw speed, both brothers contributed on a championship team and developed under Ohio State’s elite coaching. Lorenzo’s experience starting at receiver gives him unique insights into route running, which he now uses to shut down opponents as a defensive back.
Key Facts About the Styles Brothers
| Attribute | Sonny Styles | Lorenzo Styles Jr. |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Linebacker | Cornerback / Safety |
| Height / Weight | 6-5 / 244 lbs | 6-0 / 194 lbs |
| College | Ohio State Buckeyes | Notre Dame (transfer) → Ohio State |
| Draft Projection 2026 | Top-10 / First Round | Day 3 / Late Rounds |
| Notable Achievement | 2024 National Champion, Team Captain | Fastest Combine 40 for Safety (4.27s) |
| Family Role | Younger Brother | Older Brother |
This table highlights how their skills complement each other while sharing the same winning DNA.
- Both were part of Ohio State’s recent national title team.
- They started together on defense in recent seasons.
- Their father’s NFL experience provides invaluable guidance.
- The duo could make history as the first Ohio State brothers drafted in the same class.
Why the Styles Brothers Are Must-Watch in the 2026 Draft
As draft week approaches (April 23-25, 2026), excitement is building. Sonny is widely viewed as a high-upside linebacker with rare physical tools. Lorenzo’s blazing speed has boosted his stock, potentially pushing him into the third or fourth round conversation.
What makes their story special isn’t just talent—it’s the shared journey. They’ve pushed each other in workouts, celebrated championships together, and now face the next chapter side by side. Scouts love their football character, family support system, and work ethic passed down from their parents.
For fans, it’s inspiring to see siblings compete at the highest level without jealousy—just mutual respect and a bit of healthy one-upmanship. Whether they land on the same NFL team or different ones, the Styles name is set to appear on Sundays for years to come.
Conclusion
The bond between Sonny Styles and his brother Lorenzo Styles Jr. goes far beyond the football field. Rooted in a proud Ohio State family legacy, these two have turned brotherly competition into championship success and now NFL dreams. As they prepare to hear their names called in the 2026 draft, one thing is clear: the Styles brothers represent the best of family, grit, and talent.
If you’re following the draft or just love underdog stories with heart, keep an eye on both. They’ve already made history at Ohio State—next stop, the pros. Who knows? Maybe we’ll see them lining up together again in the NFL. Buckeye Nation is proud, and the football world is taking notice.
What do you think—will both brothers make an immediate impact in the league? Drop your predictions in the comments!