For Ronnie Stanley, staying with the Ravens was the right choice in free agency. After being drafted by Baltimore as the sixth overall pick in 2016, Stanley has spent his entire nine-year career with the team, forming strong bonds with teammates and coaches. As free agency approached, he never seriously considered leaving. While he could have explored the free agent market, Stanley opted to sign a three-year, $60 million deal, continuing his vital role in protecting Lamar Jackson’s blindside.
When Stanley was first drafted, he didn’t envision spending his entire career in Baltimore. However, over time, staying with one team and building a legacy has become increasingly meaningful to him. “Growing up, that wasn’t even a goal of mine,” Stanley shared during a Zoom press conference. “I never really thought about it. But now, looking back, I realize how rare it is, and I think it’s really special to spend over 10 years with the same team that drafted me.”
“I’m not sure about the exact percentages of things like that happening, but I’m incredibly happy and grateful to be one of the players who gets to experience it.”
Business is business, but Stanley always knew the Ravens would make him a fair offer, and he felt a strong sense of loyalty to them from the start. They were able to reach an agreement that Stanley felt worked well for both sides – providing him with more security while allowing the Ravens some cap flexibility to make other moves.
“They drafted me straight out of college and took a chance on me,” Stanley said. “I’ll always give them the first opportunity when it comes to things like this, out of respect. I knew I was going to give Baltimore the best deal I’d offer any other team. At the same time, I wanted to ensure I was happy with what I was making and that I was getting the value I believe I deserve. I think we struck a good balance that helps the team, and I’m still happy with it.”
As Stanley, who will turn 31 on March 18, reflects on his career, he is proud of the fact that he played every game in 2024 for the first time in his career, logging a career-high 1,089 snaps. In addition to making his second Pro Bowl, Stanley took on a mentor role for the younger offensive linemen, frequently working on technique with Roger Rosengarten, Daniel Faalele, Andrew Vorhees, and others after practice.
“I was happy with the way I played and the mindset I maintained throughout the year,” Stanley shared. “I still think I can play better — getting stronger, smarter, improving my footwork, focusing on the little things. I think that’s what’s kept me playing for as long as I have.”
The Ravens made history in 2024 as the first NFL team to score at least 40 passing touchdowns and 20 rushing touchdowns in a single season, and Stanley was a key part of that success. However, his main focus remains on helping the Ravens achieve their ultimate goal – winning a Super Bowl.
“We’ve broken so many records in recent years – but honestly, I don’t think we care about that, especially the guys who’ve been here a while,” Stanley said. “The only thing that matters is winning a Super Bowl. All that other stuff is nice, but we definitely have unfinished business.”