On February 27, 2026, at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Ohio State defensive back Lorenzo Styles Jr. delivered an impressive performance that showcased his athleticism. Following this standout showing, he made a strategic choice to skip workouts at Ohio State”s Pro Day.
“I didn”t feel like I could glide ,” Styles explained. “I really wanted to be out here. But I did everything I had to do at the combine. Being able to have that performance made me feel good about what I put out there.”
His combine results were certainly noteworthy, as Styles clocked a 4.27 in the 40-yard dash, achieved a 1.49 10-yard split, and recorded a 39-inch vertical leap. These figures positioned him among the elite defensive backs in this year”s class.
For Styles, the decision to skip Pro Day was less about further proving his speed and more about safeguarding his progress. “I get this sling off in a week,” he stated, referring to his shoulder recovery after surgery. “I”ve had this surgery before. It took me about four months, so I”m expecting the same timeline, even better.”
The recovery is crucial for his draft preparations. Instead of risking injury by participating in drills at less than full strength, Styles opted to rely on the impressive results he posted in Indianapolis. Teams evaluating his potential saw more than just numbers. “They saw the raw athleticism,” he said. “But it makes them take a second look at the film. Look at the versatility, the intelligence, how I impact the game.”
His versatility on the field was a hallmark of his time at Ohio State, particularly under the guidance of defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. “That was transformative for my game,” Styles remarked. “Before that I was mostly playing nickel. Being able to add safety versatility, do different things in the defense, he made all of us better players, more multiple.”
As he prepares for the next level, Styles envisions a multifaceted role. “I can overlap throws, play deep, do a lot of different things,” he noted. “Whatever the team needs me to do, that”s my focus. That”s the NFL. You”ve got to do more.” He is ready to embrace any role that will help him secure a spot in the league. “Special teams for sure…go get a spot and make it happen.”
In addition to his preparation for the draft, Styles plans to support his brother, Sonny, at the draft”s opening night in Pittsburgh before returning home to await his own opportunity. “The next day I”m coming straight back here,” he said. “We”re all going to be together and watch it.”
