With their sixth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft and their highest since 2003, the Ravens opted for Notre Dame offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley.
Stanley, 6-6, 315 pounds started all 13 games at left tackle for the Irish in 2015. He brings a solid reputation in run blocking and exceptional ability in pass protection. Per Pro Football Focus, Stanley didn’t have a game where he allowed more than two pressures in 2015.
He also spent 13 games in his sophomore season playing on the right side of the line.
Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome spoke with confidence following the selection of the Notre Dame standout.
“We’ve invested a lot in Joe for the next six years,” Newsome said. “We feel like Ronnie comes in with the opportunity to compete and at some point will be a starter and a starter for long time for the Baltimore Ravens.”
Newsome also stated that the Ravens had Stanley rated higher on their draft board than fellow offensive lineman by the time they picked. The former consensus top tackle, Laremy Tunsil saw his draft stock fall rapidly following the release of a video on his Twitter. In the video, he was seen smoking marijuana through a gas mask.
“Our scouts get a lot of information. When things happen, a lot of the time we’re not surprised,” responded Newsome when asked about Tunsil’s situation. “We took the best player, the player who was rated highest on the board at that point.”
The addition of Stanley could spell the end of the Eugene Monroe era in Baltimore. “Eugene is under medical care,” said Newsome.
Ozzie wouldn’t comment further on Monroe’s status.
For Stanley, he will play wherever the coaches need him. He’s ready to compete for a starting job along the Ravens offensive front.
“I’m going to be the best player I can for the organization,” said a jovial Stanley on his conference call with the Baltimore media.
While, the Stanley pick isn’t the sexy one many hoped for, it gives the Ravens a mainstay at the left tackle position for years to come.
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