In a heartfelt and somber moment for Ohio State Buckeyes fans, head coach Ryan Day has confirmed that star linebacker Sonny Styles will leave the program after this season to pursue his NFL dreams. The announcement, delivered during a team gathering and quickly shared across media outlets, included an emotional message from Day that has tugged at heartstrings: “We will miss you a lot.”

Styles, a three-year starter and team captain, has been one of the most consistent and impactful defenders in college football during his time in Columbus. His decision to forgo any remaining eligibility and declare for the 2026 NFL Draft comes after a standout campaign that saw him earn first-team All-American honors and position himself as a projected high-round pick. At 6-foot-3 and around 230 pounds, Styles combines elite athleticism, instincts, and leadership—qualities that made him a cornerstone of Ohio State’s vaunted defense.

The news hits hard for the Buckeyes, who are still reeling from a disappointing Cotton Bowl exit in the 2025 College Football Playoff quarterfinals against Miami. That loss ended a season filled with high expectations but ultimately short of a national title. Now, as the transfer portal churns and draft declarations roll in, losing a player of Styles’ caliber adds another layer of uncertainty heading into the offseason rebuild.

Day, known for his player-first approach, didn’t hold back in praising his departing linebacker. “Sonny has been everything you want in a Buckeye—tough, smart, selfless, and a leader by example,” Day said in his statement. “He’s grown from a promising young talent into one of the best linebackers in the country. We will miss you a lot, not just on the field but in the locker room, in meetings, everywhere. He’s left an indelible mark on this program.”

Styles’ journey at Ohio State has been remarkable. Recruited as a highly touted prospect, he quickly earned playing time as a freshman and developed into a full-time starter by his sophomore year. Over his career, he amassed hundreds of tackles, multiple sacks, forced fumbles, and even an interception—showcasing his versatility in both run defense and coverage. His ability to diagnose plays, rally teammates, and deliver in big moments made him a fan favorite and a respected voice in the huddle.

Teammates have flooded social media with tributes since the announcement. One prominent defensive back posted, “Big bro Sonny changed the game for all of us. The heart he played with every snap—irreplaceable. We love you, man.” Current and former players alike have highlighted Styles’ role in fostering the defensive culture that has kept Ohio State among the nation’s elite units year after year.

The departure aligns with a wave of early entries into the 2026 NFL Draft from Columbus. Stars like safety Caleb Downs, wide receiver Carnell Tate, linebacker Arvell Reese, defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, and tight end Max Klare have also declared, creating a significant talent exodus. While some key pieces like wide receiver Brandon Inniss and offensive lineman Luke Montgomery have opted to return, the losses—particularly on defense—will force Day and his staff to lean heavily on transfers, returning veterans, and incoming recruits.

Styles’ projected draft stock adds to the bittersweet nature of the news. Analysts view him as a potential first-round talent, with some mocks placing him in the late first or early second round thanks to his testing upside and production. His athletic profile—he’s expected to shine at the NFL Combine with speed, explosiveness, and positional flexibility—makes him an attractive fit for modern NFL defenses that value hybrid linebackers.

For Ohio State fans, the announcement stirs a mix of pride and sadness. Pride in seeing another Buckeye ascend to the pros under Day’s watch, sadness at losing a captain who embodied what it means to play for the Scarlet and Gray. The program has produced NFL talent consistently, but each departure reminds supporters of the transient nature of college football in the NIL and portal era.

As the Buckeyes prepare for spring practices and the 2026 season, attention turns to how Day will replace Styles’ production and leadership. The linebacker room still has talent, bolstered by recent portal additions and young prospects, but replicating a player who started for three years and captained the team won’t be easy. Day has emphasized building depth and culture, and this offseason will test that philosophy.

Styles himself has expressed deep gratitude. In a brief statement shared online, he wrote about his love for Ohio State, the fans, and the brotherhood he’s built. “This place changed my life,” he noted. “Grateful for every snap, every lesson, every brother I got to play with. Time to take the next step, but Columbus will always be home.”

The Buckeyes enter a pivotal offseason with questions about defensive identity, offensive line continuity, and quarterback development. Losing Styles—one of the emotional and on-field anchors—intensifies those challenges. Yet, under Day’s leadership, Ohio State has proven resilient, turning departures into motivation for the next group.

As the “We will miss you a lot” sentiment echoes through the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, one thing remains certain: Sonny Styles leaves as a legend in Scarlet and Gray. His impact will be felt long after he takes the field in an NFL uniform. For now, fans can only hope the Buckeyes channel that emotion into another strong run in 2026—honoring the legacy of players like Styles who gave everything for the Block O.