1. Is Ronnie Stanley back and ready to lead the Baltimore Ravens?
The success of the Baltimore Ravens definitely hinges on Lamar Jackson, but it is easy to say that Ronnie Stanley is right behind Jackson if not right with Jackson as the two most important pieces. Is is a shock that Stanley was at his best in 2019, and so was Jackson?
In 2020, Stanley only played 312 snaps and the line struggled, then he missed almost all of the 2021 season as well. In 2022, he came back but he was eased in, it was awkward at times, and he was just finding his footing. He was fine, but it was nothing like his play in 2019.
So, now there are no injury excuses or questions this offseason. Stanley is still just 29 years old, so he has plenty of good tread on his tires. This should be a good season for him.
It better be, because the Ravens have him signed to a massive deal for the next three seasons, and will be hard to get out of. Next season his cap hit shoots up to nearly $27M. They would have to eat about $17M if he struggled, so they really have no choice, and he will be back in 2024 as well.
If he struggles or is injured or something comes up that is going to be an ugly cap hit for someone who has not played well in years. However, having an elite left tackle, with a healthy J.K. Dobbins and now Todd Monken calling the shots could be the changes that bring Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens over the edge. His presence is that vital.