Ronnie Stanley is expected to re-sign with the Baltimore Ravens.

Ronnie Stanley is one of the most important players for the Baltimore Ravens, and as such, his expected re-signing with the team has become a key storyline for the organization. In the modern NFL, securing elite offensive line talent like Stanley is crucial for any team that wants to succeed at the highest level. With a dynamic offense centered around quarterback Lamar Jackson, it is imperative that the Ravens have a strong offensive line to protect their playmakers. Stanley, as the cornerstone of that line, is a player whose re-signing could signal a new era of success for the Ravens. In this article, we will explore the impact of Stanley’s expected re-signing, the history of his career, and what it means for the future of the team.

Ronnie Stanley’s Background

Ronnie Stanley was born on March 18, 1994, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He attended Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, where he became a standout football player. After high school, Stanley continued his athletic journey at the University of Notre Dame, where he played for the Fighting Irish. During his time at Notre Dame, Stanley showcased incredible physical attributes and advanced technical skills that made him a highly coveted prospect. Standing 6’6″ and weighing around 315 pounds, Stanley has the ideal frame for an NFL offensive lineman.

Stanley played for Notre Dame from 2012 to 2015, earning accolades along the way, including a spot on the All-ACC First Team. His performance at Notre Dame demonstrated his exceptional pass protection, run blocking, and ability to handle strong defensive linemen, earning him a reputation as one of the best offensive tackle prospects in his draft class. As a result, he was highly regarded as one of the top players available in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Draft and Early Career with the Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens selected Ronnie Stanley with the sixth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, a decision that has since paid significant dividends for the team. In the years following his selection, Stanley established himself as one of the top offensive tackles in the NFL.

In his rookie season, Stanley made an immediate impact, starting 15 games at left tackle. His strong performance as a rookie did not go unnoticed, and he quickly became one of the most important pieces of the Ravens’ offensive line. Stanley’s combination of strength, athleticism, and technical ability allowed him to protect the quarterback’s blind side and open up running lanes for ball carriers, providing stability to the offense.

As the years went on, Stanley only improved, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors. His consistency and ability to dominate as both a pass blocker and run blocker made him a vital part of the Ravens’ offensive scheme. Stanley’s proficiency in pass protection was particularly important given the Ravens’ reliance on quarterback Lamar Jackson’s unique skill set. Jackson’s ability to make plays both in and out of the pocket requires an offensive line that can keep him protected while also allowing him to improvise when necessary. Stanley’s presence on the left side of the line was invaluable in ensuring that Jackson had the time and space to make plays.

The Importance of Offensive Line Play

In the modern NFL, offensive line play is more important than ever. With the league moving toward more pass-heavy offenses, the need for reliable pass protection has increased. Quarterbacks are frequently asked to throw deep passes or work through multiple progressions, which requires an offensive line that can hold up against the pressure of aggressive defenses. Additionally, the rise of dual-threat quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson emphasizes the need for a line that is capable of both protecting the quarterback in the pocket and opening up lanes for the running game.

For the Ravens, Stanley has been the foundation of their offensive line. With his ability to block defenders in the running game and protect the quarterback in passing situations, Stanley’s role cannot be overstated. The Ravens’ offensive success over the past few years has been partially due to the stability provided by Stanley on the left side. Without him, the Ravens’ offensive line would undoubtedly be weaker, leaving Lamar Jackson and the rest of the offense more vulnerable to pressure.

Moreover, the Ravens have a reputation for developing strong running games, with their offensive scheme built around a power running attack, including the dynamic running ability of Jackson. In this system, the left tackle is particularly important. Stanley’s ability to create holes in the defense and give running backs the opportunity to break free for big gains is essential to the Ravens’ offensive identity.

The Contract Situation

Stanley’s re-signing is expected to take place in the context of an ongoing contract negotiation. As a highly valued player, Stanley’s contract has been a subject of interest for both the team and fans alike. In 2020, Stanley signed a massive five-year, $98.75 million contract extension, which made him one of the highest-paid offensive linemen in the NFL at the time. His extension was a signal of the Ravens’ commitment to keeping their franchise left tackle for the long term. However, as with most NFL contracts, the situation is fluid, and Stanley’s contract will be a point of focus in the coming months.

With Stanley continuing to perform at a high level and maintaining his elite status as one of the top left tackles in the league, the Ravens will likely look to rework his contract to ensure he remains a Raven for years to come. Negotiations in the NFL are often tricky, especially for high-profile players like Stanley. The Ravens will need to balance maintaining salary cap flexibility with rewarding Stanley for his exceptional play. Given that Stanley is one of the best players at his position in the league, he will likely command a salary that reflects his value to the team.

In addition to the financial aspect, the timing of Stanley’s re-signing is important in terms of the Ravens’ long-term strategy. With Lamar Jackson’s contract situation also on the horizon, the Ravens will have to make decisions that align with their vision for the future. The Ravens’ ability to retain Stanley while also securing Jackson and other key players will be a critical factor in the team’s success over the next several years.

Ronnie Stanley’s Impact on the Ravens’ Future

The re-signing of Ronnie Stanley is about more than just keeping one of the best offensive tackles in the league. It is about ensuring that the Ravens remain a competitive team for the long haul. With Jackson at the helm, the Ravens are poised to remain one of the most dangerous offensive teams in the league. However, as mentioned earlier, none of this is possible without a strong offensive line to protect Jackson and open up running lanes.

Having Stanley locked up for the future will give the Ravens more stability on the offensive line and allow them to focus on building around Jackson and the rest of their core players. It will also allow the coaching staff to build an offense that is tailored to Jackson’s strengths, knowing that they have a reliable left tackle in Stanley who can protect their franchise quarterback.

Additionally, retaining Stanley allows the Ravens to maintain their identity as a team that excels in the running game. The Ravens’ offense has often relied on a power-run game that allows them to control the clock and impose their will on opposing defenses. With Stanley anchoring the left side of the offensive line, the Ravens can continue to execute this style of play effectively, keeping their opponents off balance and maximizing their offensive potential.

The Ravens also have a relatively young team with plenty of room for growth, so Stanley’s leadership on the offensive line will be invaluable in developing the next generation of players. As the veteran leader, Stanley can help mentor younger players and ensure that the offensive line remains a cohesive and dominant unit. His experience and poise in high-pressure situations will be critical as the Ravens look to make deep playoff runs and eventually compete for another Super Bowl title.

Ronnie Stanley’s expected re-signing with the Baltimore Ravens is a significant moment for the team. It ensures that the franchise will continue to have one of the best offensive tackles in the NFL, a player who is vital to their offensive success. Stanley has been a cornerstone of the Ravens’ offensive line since he was drafted in 2016, and his re-signing will give the team the stability and strength they need to compete at a high level for years to come.

For the Ravens, Stanley represents more than just a talented player; he is a symbol of their commitment to building a team that can win championships. His leadership, technical ability, and physical prowess make him a valuable asset to the Ravens, and his re-signing signals the team’s dedication to maintaining a strong offensive line. With Lamar Jackson at quarterback and Stanley on the left side, the Ravens are well-positioned to remain a force in the NFL for years to come.

As the contract negotiations play out and the final details are ironed out, one thing is clear: Ronnie Stanley’s importance to the Ravens cannot be overstated. His expected re-signing is a major step in ensuring the franchise remains competitive, and it further solidifies the Ravens’ position as one of the top teams in the league.