In the fast-paced world of professional football, few positions are as challenging and demanding as that of a left tackle. For Ronnie Stanley of the Baltimore Ravens, the past few seasons have been a testament to both the resilience and determination required to excel at the highest level of the game.
Last season, Stanley returned to the field for 13 games, marking a significant milestone in his career that has been hindered by injuries over the past four years. The left tackle's journey back to peak form has not been easy, but his recent performances have shown that he is on the right path.
Reflecting on his experiences, Stanley shared, "I guess being in that state when I was younger, it wasn't as savory as a moment or savory as a time, just knowing that, 'OK, your career could have been over after one play' and not knowing if I was ever going to feel like that again physically or athletically."
Stanley's tumultuous journey includes playing only six games in 2020 and just one game in 2021, as injuries repeatedly hampered his on-field appearances. However, his participation in 11 games in 2022 and his return for 13 games this past season indicate a hopeful resurgence. His selection for the Pro Bowl in 2023 is a testament to his enduring talent and persistent drive to overcome setbacks.
Rebuilding and Resilience
One of the critical factors in Stanley's recovery has been his offseason training and participation in Organized Team Activities (OTAs). These sessions have been crucial in helping Stanley rebuild his physical conditioning and regain his confidence. "To truly feel like that and be out there and just notice myself getting better every day and feeling more like my old self every day, it definitely makes me happy," he explained.
Stanley further elaborated on the gradual nature of his recovery, highlighting how his confidence grew as he translated his training into on-field performance. "It's more of a gradual thing. I think in the offseason, I definitely felt that, where it was like, 'Oh, yeah, I feel really good athletically. I feel like I'm doing these drills on the field really well. I feel like I'm making sharp cuts, being able to get low and be flexible.' But it’s all different when you have to translate it to football. Not until I came back here, really through OTAs and just getting back into football stuff, is really when I started to feel more confident about all of that training and that rolling over to actual production."
Contract Adjustments
In addition to his physical challenges, Stanley has navigated changes in his contractual situation. By reducing his base salary from $11 million to $3 million, Stanley has positioned himself to become a free agent a year earlier, with 2025 being a void year in his contract. This move reflects both financial flexibility for the Ravens and Stanley's commitment to proving his worth on the field.
The left tackle acknowledges that feeling physically like his old self has been a significant morale booster. "For the most part, just to be able to feel like myself physically has made me a lot happier," he said. "To be able to perform at the standard I know I can perform at, it just makes me feel more at ease and confident in what I'm doing and that I'm going in the right direction."
Looking Ahead
As the Ravens prepare for the 2024 NFL season, Stanley's return to form is a promising development for the team. His presence on the field not only strengthens the offensive line but also boosts the overall morale of the squad. "To truly feel like myself again, that’s what makes all the difference," Stanley emphasized.
Stanley's journey over the past few seasons serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges professional athletes face and the unwavering dedication required to overcome them. His resilience and commitment to his craft continue to inspire both teammates and fans alike, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season for the Baltimore Ravens.