What led up to the Commanders picking LB Sonny Styles?

The Washington Commanders held the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. As we now know, the Commanders found their new defensive leader, selecting Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles.

Before Washington went on the clock, there were a couple of mild surprises in the top five. What were they? Let's take a look at what the other six teams did in front of the Commanders, before Styles heard his name called.

1. The Las Vegas Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana. The plan is for Kirk Cousins to start the season while mentoring/tutoring Mendoza.

Mendoza couldn't ask for a better teacher or supporter in Cousins. Cousins knows he is in his last year(s) and his mature enough to accept his role with the Raiders 2. The New York Jets chose David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech.