Ronnie Stanley is a top ten left tackle

The offensive line has suffered their fair amount of injuries, but one man in particular, has not only survived, but thrived.

This season, Ronnie Stanley built upon a strong rookie campaign. In 2017, through eight games, Stanley has only allowed 18 total pressures, in which a pressure denotes a sack, hit or hurry.

Stanley's overall grade is 81.4, ranking him ninth among tackles. His pass blocking grade is 75.2, ranking 28th among tackles. In 526 total snaps, he’s only allowed 18 total pressures.

Regarding Ronnie’s run-blocking, PFF gives him the crown.

PFF’s full rankings for Ronnie are impressive, especially with the shape of this offense.

Run blocking: 88.1 (1st)
Pass blocking: 75.2 (28th)
Overall: 81.4 (9th)

If Stanley wasn’t forced into a pivotal role with backups and even third string guards, I presume his stats would only rise. Rather than Alex Lewis on his side, he’s had a rotational effort of Matt Skura, James Hurst and Jermaine Eluemunor. Not to say they haven’t produced, as Hurst and Skura both stepped up strongly this season, but healthy starters are always a plus.

It can’t stop here, though, and it won’t. Ronnie is only in his sophomore season, and undoubtedly has demonstrated blue-chip ability. Once the rookie deal is over, this team will be backing up a brinks truck for the star.