INDIANAPOLIS — Three words, significant implications.

“Well, that would be better,” John Harbaugh remarked.

Is it a request? A hint? A straightforward message?

Harbaugh is clear: his new team won’t continue the trend of poor run defenses. “This is a must, I assure you,” he emphasized at the NFL Scouting Combine. Defense has tiers and levels, and commitment to stopping the run is essential. I can’t afford to be run over; that’s fundamental to football, really.

For too long, that’s been a sore spot for the Giants. If only there were someone in the upcoming draft to fill that gap.

And here comes Sonny Styles.

“I believe that improving our run defense starts with being proactive… I feel like we have a solid understanding of what’s about to happen,” said the Ohio State standout. “We’ve showcased physical practices on film, demonstrating solid tackling for the most part.”

Interestingly, his missed tackle rate was a mere 2.2%, with his only miss occurring during the playoff loss to Miami.

This guy is, quite frankly, a top-tier run stopper in college. What if he enters the Giants’ lineup as a first-round pick?

“It’s all about stepping into the building and earning the trust of those in front of me. If I’m activated on defense, I need the defensive line and the players behind me to believe in me so that I can lead the defense,” Styles said.

There’s potential here for the Giants. They hold the No. 5 pick and might secure Styles or one of his college teammates, like defensive end Arbel Reese or safety Caleb Downs. Any of these players could help bolster their ability to counter rushing attacks.

“Yeah, Coach and I had extensive discussions about this. For him, it’s crucial that we stop surrendering big plays in the run game,” general manager Joe Schon noted. It’s been a weakness, and focusing on improvement this offseason is essential.

Let’s face it—few teams have struggled as the Giants have. They were ranked 31st in run defense last season, allowing a staggering 145.3 rushing yards per game. In previous seasons, they were similarly ranked: 27th (136.2 yards), 29th (132.4 yards), and 27th (144.2 yards).

Middle linebacker Bobby Okereke started all 17 games last year and led with 143 tackles, yet he didn’t impact the game as much as hoped. Releasing him could open up $9 million in cap space, which might shift the team’s focus.

Styles, I must say, has made quite the impression. He met with the Giants and garnered positive feedback. It’s not a surprise either; he managed to handle media sessions effortlessly, clearly showing his maturity.

“The meeting went great,” Styles mentioned, praising inside linebackers coach Frank Bush.

Originally entering Ohio State as a safety, Stiles has transformed. At 6-foot-5 and 243 pounds, he presents a formidable presence at linebacker, able to cover multiple roles. Despite having a challenging year in 2024, he recorded 100 tackles (10.5 for loss) and six sacks as the Buckeyes clinched the national title. His statistics dipped as he transitioned to a more central role in his senior year.

“In any defense, that’s my plan,” Stiles asserted. “I’ll bring versatility, intelligence, physicality, and consistency.”

Stiles has drawn comparisons to Fred Warner, and while he acknowledges that, there’s also glimpses of Luke Kuechly in his game. He seems grounded, confident, and eager to succeed at the next level.

“I believe I can make a significant impact regardless of where I’m chosen or the role I take on. It’s important to understand my responsibilities and excel at them,” he stated. “Consistency and hard work are what it’s all about.”