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Ronnie Stanley, the 23-year old 2016 first round pick, has been graded as the most efficient pass blocker among rookie offensive tackles by Pro Football Focus. This grade is compounded by the fact that the Ravens also had the ninth-ranked offensive line in the league as well.
When selecting Stanley from Notre Dame, some fans complained and noted that Laremy Tunsil was still on the board. However, Baltimore’s choice in an offensive lineman in the 2016 NFL Draft has proven to be an intelligent one as it stands.
During his first season in the purple and black, Stanley battled a nagging foot injury (missing four games). Although he had the injury, his play proved to be impressive. According to PFF, Stanley only allowed three sacks in 12 games.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh raved about Stanley, after their season-finale against the Cincinnati Bengals. He spoke about Stanley’s workman’s personality and ability to improve.
“[He can] become, I believe, a premier left tackle in this league,” Head Coach John Harbaugh said via Ryan Mink of BaltimoreRavens.com.
“That is our job to get him there, because I just think he is smart, he is tough, he is willing to work hard, and he listens.”
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These are great qualities to have for a young left tackle. Stanley will enter his second season with high expectations from his coaching staff.
“I feel like Ronnie is a guy that is very coachable, and he is very smart. Plus, he is talented,” Harbaugh continued. “I feel like he is the kind of guy that is going to improve dramatically from one day to the next, from one year to the next.”
He will also have a new offensive line coach in Joe D'Alessandris to work with. D'Alessandris is a highly respected coach in both the NFL and college ranks. He has coached with Duke University (1997-2001), Georgia Tech (2002-07), the Kansas City Chiefs (2008-09), Buffalo Bills (2010-12), San Diego Chargers (2013-15).
Being able to soak up knowledge from the experienced D’Alessandris can allow Stanley to become a better offensive lineman. Due to what has been seen in the past, the young left tackle can get better as his career goes on.