The NFL Combine in Indianapolis showcased a remarkable display of speed, particularly at defensive positions where the Chicago Bears are looking to enhance their game. Ryan Poles, the Bears” general manager, expressed his desire to improve defensive speed across the board, acknowledging the necessity for quicker defensive linemen and enhanced agility in the secondary.
Among the standout performances, Lorenzo Styles Jr., a safety from Ohio State and former player at Notre Dame, turned heads by running the fastest time at the combine, clocking in with a sub-4.3 second 40-yard dash. This impressive feat came as the Bears seek to revamp their defensive strategy.
Styles emphasized the importance of special teams, stating, “I take a lot of pride in special teams. I feel like it”s big in the NFL now. Field position matters. So, being able to contribute to that, I feel I can do that Day 1.” While his college career featured limited return opportunities, he did record a touchdown on a kick return and had a notable 36-yard punt return.
His transition from receiver to defensive back has been significant. At Notre Dame, he recorded 54 receptions for 684 yards and two touchdowns before shifting to cornerback at Ohio State, eventually playing safety. “I kind of fell in love with DB; I get to play. I don”t have to run a deep route, or I”m not set to a certain route. I get to play off my athleticism,” Styles explained.
Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, Styles gained invaluable experience in defensive roles, particularly in the dime package. “He put enough trust in me to be out there,” Styles noted, referring to Coach Knowles and his approach that involved blitzing and man coverage.
Styles has often been in the shadow of his brother, Sonny Styles, who is a highly regarded linebacker also from Ohio State, and who recorded the fastest time among linebackers at 4.46 seconds. Their father, a Super Bowl champion with the 1999 Rams, instilled a deep understanding of the game in them, with Lorenzo recalling fond memories of his father”s achievements.
“My dad didn”t really talk about his career a lot,” Styles shared. “He wasn”t the type of guy to say he was this type of player.” Yet, the lessons of discipline, teamwork, and leadership have resonated with him profoundly.
Now, with the NFL draft approaching, Styles declared, “I feel like there”s not going to be a lot of players in the country as versatile as me. I can play free safety, drop down, cover, I can play nickel, even go play corner, all four special teams.” The Bears, with all four of their safeties out of contract, may find Styles an appealing option to bolster their defensive lineup.
