Ohio State Linebackers Coach James Laurinaitis Names Sonny Styles, Arvell Reese, and Payton Pierce as Starters, Setting the Tone for Buckeyes’ Defensive Front

Columbus, OH — In a recent media availability session on Wednesday, Ohio State linebackers coach James Laurinaitis delivered a clear message about the defensive direction of the Buckeyes as they prepare for the upcoming season. Laurinaitis, a former Ohio State standout and NFL veteran who has quickly earned respect as one of the sharpest minds on the coaching staff, confirmed that he views three players—Sonny Styles, Arvell Reese, and Payton Pierce—as the starting linebackers for the 2025 season. This announcement not only signals stability and confidence within the linebacker room but also offers insight into how the Buckeyes intend to build their defensive identity around a blend of experience, athleticism, and grit.

Laurinaitis’ endorsement of Styles, Reese, and Pierce is significant because the linebacker corps is often considered the backbone of any successful defense. These players serve as the key communicators on the field, the run-stoppers near the line of scrimmage, and the versatile defenders tasked with covering both tight ends and receivers in modern schemes. In Ohio State’s defense, where adaptability and speed are critical against the high-powered offenses in the Big Ten and beyond, having a reliable, cohesive unit at linebacker is crucial.

Sonny Styles, the name that immediately stands out in the trio, has been one of the most buzzed-about defensive prospects in the Buckeyes program. The younger brother of former Ohio State star safety Chase Young, Styles carries a legacy of excellence but has also carved out his own identity on the field. Known for his explosive athleticism, sideline-to-sideline speed, and exceptional tackling ability, Styles has been a disruptive force in practices and scrimmages throughout the offseason. Laurinaitis’ public acknowledgment of Styles as a starter confirms what many inside the program and fanbase have anticipated—that Styles is poised to be a cornerstone of Ohio State’s defense this year.

Joining Styles in the starting lineup is Arvell Reese, a player whose rise has been equally impressive. Reese, who has battled through injuries in past seasons, appears to have fully recovered and is now poised to capitalize on his physical tools and football IQ. Reese brings a blend of toughness and instinctive playmaking that complements Styles’ speed and explosiveness. His leadership qualities and on-field awareness have earned him respect among teammates and coaches alike, making him a natural fit alongside Styles in the linebacker corps.

The third name Laurinaitis mentioned—Payton Pierce—adds depth and versatility to the group. Pierce, a hard-working linebacker with a reputation for high motor and sound technique, has steadily developed over his time with the Buckeyes. His ability to read offenses and fill gaps quickly makes him an essential component of the defensive front. Laurinaitis’ decision to name Pierce as a starter underscores the importance of having multiple skill sets within the linebacker unit, allowing Ohio State to adjust personnel packages and defensive calls seamlessly during games.

The linebackers’ role in Ohio State’s defense extends beyond mere statistics and tackling numbers. These players are often responsible for reading the offense pre-snap, calling audibles, and adjusting the defensive scheme on the fly. The trust Laurinaitis places in Styles, Reese, and Pierce indicates that the coaching staff views this trio not just as physical talents but also as cerebral players capable of executing complex assignments under pressure.

During his media session, Laurinaitis was clear about the expectations for the group. He emphasized the importance of consistency, communication, and accountability, traits that will be necessary as Ohio State seeks to defend its status as one of the nation’s premier defensive units. With a schedule that features several high-powered offenses, the linebackers will need to stay disciplined and adapt quickly to opposing game plans. Laurinaitis’ confidence in his starters sends a strong message to both the team and fans that the Buckeyes are building a defense designed to meet these challenges head-on.

The announcement also signals a potential shift in the defensive philosophy, focusing on speed and versatility. As offenses across college football increasingly emphasize spread concepts and quick passing games, linebackers must be able to cover ground rapidly and defend against the pass as well as the run. Styles, Reese, and Pierce fit this mold perfectly, combining physicality with the athleticism needed to excel in a hybrid defense.

This linebacker group’s chemistry will be essential as the Buckeyes look to integrate younger talent and adjust to any mid-season challenges that may arise. Laurinaitis’ previous experience as a player who thrived in high-pressure situations—both at Ohio State and in the NFL—equips him with the tools to develop these players into not only skilled defenders but also leaders who can rally the team in critical moments.

For Ohio State fans, the naming of these starters provides clarity and optimism heading into the fall camp and eventual season opener. Styles, Reese, and Pierce represent a core that can anchor the defense, inspire confidence, and help the Buckeyes contend for Big Ten titles and national championships. Their development will be closely watched throughout the season as the Buckeyes aim to uphold their tradition of defensive excellence.

As training camp progresses, all eyes will be on this linebacker trio to see how they perform in live action. While Laurinaitis’ comments set the initial depth chart, the reality of college football is that competition is fierce and opportunities arise quickly. Nevertheless, the message is clear: Styles, Reese, and Pierce have earned the trust of their coaches and stand ready to lead Ohio State’s defense into the 2025 season.

In conclusion, James Laurinaitis’ media availability on Wednesday has given Ohio State’s fans and analysts a pivotal glimpse into the linebacker room’s future. By naming Sonny Styles, Arvell Reese, and Payton Pierce as starters, Laurinaitis not only reveals his current vision for the defense but also reinforces the importance of experience, athleticism, and leadership in the heart of the Buckeyes’ defensive strategy. As the season unfolds, these three players will be tasked with setting the tone and intensity that could define Ohio State’s defensive success in 2025 and beyond.