The Dallas Cowboys are fixing their defense, but a major hole remains at linebacker. The answer could be at Ohio State, but getting the 244-pound national champion won't be easy.

They have strengthened the pass rush and the secondary unit thus far. Sonny Styles, the national champion winner with the Buckeyes, who has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, could be the solution to the position.

As per Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s Nick Harris, “Whether that be the trade market or trading up for Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles in the draft, there will need to be a big move made to lock up that gaping hole.”

Styles started as a safety and moved to linebacker. In his four seasons as a Buckeye, Styles recorded 245 total tackles, nine passes defended, nine sacks, and three forced fumbles. The 244-pound defender also had one interception.

“It’s hard to look at him and think that he was ever a safety with that frame. And he’s always been wired like a linebacker,” one AFC regional scout said. 

The Cowboys would love to acquire him, but there is a hiccup. Styles, who was once projected to be a top-15 pick, is now projected to be a top-10 pick unanimously. 

The Cowboys hold two first-round picks (12 and 20), and they would need to trade up, which is not easy. If drafted, Styles would be an immediate starter for the Cowboys.

How does the current LB room look for the Cowboys?

The linebacker room does not look that great for the Cowboys. The LB room consists of Marist Liufau, DeMarvion Overshown, Shemar James, Justin Barron, and Logan Wilson. 

Liuafu is expected to transition to an outside linebacker role under Christian Parker’s 3-4 defensive scheme. 

Overshawn will return to the inside linebacker role, but staying healthy is his Achilles heel and is currently listed as questionable (Q) on the Dallas Cowboys depth chart.

Shemar James, Justin Barron, and Logan Wilson are all inexperienced and will likely serve as depth players.

So what do you think? Should the Dallas Cowboys go all in for Sonny Styles, or should they look elsewhere? Tell us in the comments.

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Written by

Samvruth Raj

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi