Ronnie Stanley's Journey Back to Form: A Resilient Return to the Field
Ronnie Stanley, a cornerstone of the Baltimore Ravens' offensive line, has faced an arduous journey over the past few seasons. As a left tackle known for his prowess on the field, Stanley's career has been marred by a series of injuries that limited his participation and tested his resilience.
Stanley, who appeared in just six games in 2020 and a mere one game in 2021, saw a gradual return to action, participating in 11 games in 2022. Last season, Stanley managed to take part in 13 games, a promising sign of his return to form. Reflecting on these challenges and his journey back, 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 encapsulate the uncertainty and emotional toll that accompanied his physical recovery.
Despite these setbacks, Stanley was selected for the Pro Bowl in 2023, a testament to his skill and determination. He worked diligently during the offseason, focusing on his training and taking part in Organized Team Activities (OTAs) to rebuild his physical conditioning. "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,'" Stanley explained. "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."
Stanley’s determination to get back to his old self on the field reflects not just a physical recovery, but a mental one as well. The tackle reduced his base salary from $11 million to $3 million, a strategic move that not only showed his commitment to the team but also adjusted his contract to make him a free agent a year earlier, with 2025 now being a void year. Such changes indicate a player who is not just focused on personal recovery but also on being a team player and planning for the future.
Throughout his recovery, Stanley remained optimistic. "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 emphasized. It's clear that for Stanley, health and performance on the field have a direct impact on his overall well-being. "For the most part, just to be able to feel like myself physically has made me a lot happier," he added.
As the Ravens prepare for the 2024 NFL season, Stanley's presence bolsters their offensive line. His gradual return to form and renewed confidence are promising signs for the team's prospects. Reflecting on his journey, Stanley 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."
Stanley's comeback story is not just about overcoming physical obstacles; it's a testament to his resilience and enduring spirit. "To truly feel like myself again, that’s what makes all the difference," Stanley concluded. With his focus and determination, Ronnie Stanley is poised to be a key player for the Ravens, inspiring fans and fellow players alike with his relentless pursuit of excellence.