Ronnie Stanley: Is He the NFL's Most Underrated Left Tackle?

Ronnie Stanley, the Baltimore Ravens' stalwart left tackle, often flies under the radar in discussions about the league's elite offensive linemen. While names like Trent Williams and David Bakhtiari frequently dominate the conversation, Stanley quietly and consistently performs at a level that warrants serious consideration for the title of most underrated left tackle in the NFL. His blend of size, athleticism, and technical prowess makes him a cornerstone of the Ravens' offensive line and a critical component of their success. But is he truly the most *underrated*? Let's delve into the details.

Drafted sixth overall in 2016 out of Notre Dame, Stanley arrived in Baltimore with high expectations. He quickly lived up to the hype, demonstrating an exceptional ability to protect the quarterback's blind side. His footwork is impeccable, allowing him to mirror even the most agile edge rushers. Stanley possesses the strength to anchor against bull rushes and the quickness to recover if beaten initially. This combination of physical attributes is rare and makes him a nightmare matchup for opposing defensive coordinators.

One of Stanley's most impressive qualities is his consistency. He rarely commits penalties and consistently grades out as one of the top tackles in the league according to Pro Football Focus. Availability, however, has been a concern in recent years. After signing a lucrative contract extension in 2019, Stanley suffered a devastating ankle injury in 2020 that sidelined him for significant portions of two seasons. This forced absence undoubtedly contributed to his slipping from the forefront of public consciousness.

However, when healthy, Stanley’s impact is undeniable. He’s a crucial element in the Ravens’ run-heavy offense, creating lanes for their dynamic rushing attack. His ability to seal the edge and generate movement at the point of attack is invaluable. Moreover, his presence provides Lamar Jackson, a mobile quarterback who often extends plays outside the pocket, with the confidence to create and improvise, knowing his blind side is secured.

The argument for Stanley's underrated status rests on the combination of his elite performance and relative lack of recognition. While casual fans might overlook him, those within the league understand his value. His peers and coaches consistently praise his technique and consistency, acknowledging his place among the league's premier left tackles. The challenge lies in balancing his undeniably high ceiling with the injury concerns that have plagued him recently.

Comparing Stanley to other top-tier left tackles further strengthens the case for his underrated status. While players like Williams and Bakhtiari often receive more accolades and media attention, Stanley's performance metrics often match or even exceed theirs. His pass-blocking efficiency and run-blocking grades consistently place him among the league's best. The difference, arguably, lies in the narrative surrounding each player. Williams' athleticism and Bakhtiari's consistency are frequently highlighted, while Stanley's contributions often go unnoticed outside of Baltimore.

The question of whether Ronnie Stanley is the *most* underrated left tackle remains subjective. Undoubtedly, other deserving candidates exist. However, the combination of his elite skillset, consistent performance when healthy, and relative lack of widespread recognition makes a compelling argument for his inclusion at the top of that list. As he continues to regain his pre-injury form and solidify his presence on the Ravens' offensive line, the conversation surrounding his place among the league's elite will undoubtedly grow louder. And perhaps, finally, he will receive the recognition he deserves.

Ultimately, Stanley's impact transcends statistics and accolades. He is the quintessential embodiment of a franchise left tackle, providing stability and protection to one of the league's most unique offenses. As he moves forward, his continued health and performance will be paramount not only for the Ravens' success but also for solidifying his legacy as one of the premier offensive linemen of his generation.