Sunday was a big day for the Washington Commanders. Washington picked up its first win of the season, upsetting the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks 33-31. The Commanders did it despite missing several starters, including quarterback Jayden Daniels, as 8.5-point underdogs.
One of the main reasons Washington upset Seattle was its defense. The Commanders entered Week 3 without having forced a turnover. Against the Seahawks, Washington forced three. And they took advantage, scoring 21 points off turnovers against Seattle. Rookie linebacker Sonny Styles was responsible for two of those turnovers—and almost another.
On Wednesday, Styles earned his first NFL honor when he was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week. Not rookie of the week,
defensive player of the week.
Him. @sonnystyles_ | #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/BUax3Zstbe
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) September 30, 2026
Styles, the No. 7 overall pick in April’s 2026 NFL Draft, was everywhere on Sunday, recording five tackles, two pass breakups, one interception, one quarterback hit and two forced fumbles. The Seahawks recovered one of those forced fumbles for a touchdown after Styles knocked it loose.
Perhaps Styles’ most impressive play of the day was his coverage of rookie running back Jadarian Price down the sideline. Styles ran stride for stride with Price and broke up Sam Darnold’s pass in what would've been a huge play for Seattle.
Styles and the Commanders are in London, preparing for a Week 4 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders' rookie Sonny Styles wins first NFL award
