Stanley’s Remarkable Resurgence with the Ravens After Years of Adversity
Ronnie Stanley, the stalwart left tackle for the Baltimore Ravens, has marked his triumphant return to the field in notable fashion, having overcome an arduous journey marred by injuries over the past four seasons. Selected for the Pro Bowl in 2023, Stanley’s career trajectory seemed uncertain at times, but his determination and resilience have seen him reclaim his position on the offensive line with renewed vigor.
Stanley's struggles began in 2020, a year that saw him play only six games due to injuries. The following season was even more challenging, as he appeared in just one game in 2021. As he continued to battle physical setbacks, the 2022 season offered a glimmer of hope; Stanley managed to participate in 11 games, a significant improvement but still short of a full season.
The 2023 season marked a notable turnaround for Stanley. He was back on the field for 13 games, demonstrating not just his physical capabilities but his mental fortitude as well. Reflecting on his journey, 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." His words underscore the daunting reality of a profession where one’s career can hinge on a single moment.
Stanley’s ability to stay on the field was not solely due to his physical rehabilitation but also a significant financial decision. He reduced his base salary from $11 million to $3 million, a move that has not only aided the Ravens financially but also restructured his contract, thus making him a free agent a year earlier, with 2025 now being a void year. This adjustment demonstrates Stanley's commitment to both his team and his long-term career planning.
The offseason and Organized Team Activities (OTAs) were pivotal in Stanley’s resurgence. They provided him with the necessary time and structure to rebuild his conditioning. "For the most part, just to be able to feel like myself physically has made me a lot happier," Stanley noted, highlighting the mental and physical intersection crucial for an athlete’s confidence.
Stanley elaborated on the gradual nature of his recovery: "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."
The dedication to his craft has paid dividends, as Stanley himself acknowledges: "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." His gradual progress has translated into on-field performance, reinforcing his sense of direction and purpose. "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, the Baltimore Ravens are preparing for the 2024 NFL season with high hopes, and Ronnie Stanley’s presence on the line is undoubtedly a cornerstone of their plans. His journey from uncertain health to Pro Bowl recognition serves as a testament to his tenacity and professionalism.
"To truly feel like myself again, that's what makes all the difference," Stanley said, encapsulating the essence of his journey. His return to form is not just a personal victory but a source of inspiration for his teammates and fans alike, as they eagerly anticipate what the 2024 season holds for Stanley and the Ravens.