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NFL Draft: Ronnie Stanley Immediately Strengthens the Offensive Line

By Jason Belschner

Sep 19, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Ronnie Stanley (78) prepares to block Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets linebacker Tyler Marcordes (35) at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Ronnie Stanley (78) prepares to block Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets linebacker Tyler Marcordes (35) at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ronnie Stanley is The Newest Raven

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The Ravens bolstered their offensive line with the sixth overall pick in the NFL draft, Ronnie Stanley from Notre Dame. With the departure of Pro Bowl guard Kelechi Osemele, a large hole was created on the offensive front.

Drafting Stanley will allow the Ravens to shift Marshall Yanda to left guard. Ricky Wagner can shift to right guard from right tackle. Stanley, who is a dominant run blocker, can start his career at right tackle before eventually taking over left tackle from Eugene Monroe.

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Stanley started 39 games with Notre Dame, and he is considered a tough, intelligent player. He was a 2015 second team All American after a strong performance as the starting left tackle in 2014. As a red shirt freshman, he started every game as a right tackle.

The Ravens’ rushing attack will be bolstered by Stanley’s ability to not only block the down lineman but also making his way to the second level. His quick first step and above average speed allow him to track down backside linebackers and keep them away from the play.

Strength may be the only concern for Stanley. He didn’t perform the bench press drill at the combine, but at his pro day, he completed 24 reps of 225 pounds. Compared to participants at the combine, that is average or just slightly below average. He is not a big mauler and has to make up for it with technique and quickness.

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While not a sexy pick in any stretch, Stanley will make an impact from day one. There is little doubt that he will start right away, and with a NFL strength coach, he will become a more complete blocker over the first couple of years to make the move to left tackle.

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