By Joe Schiller
When asked about picking up Ronnie Stanley's fifth-year option on Monday, Baltimore Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta declined to comment but offered his praise to one of the team's top offensive talents.
Eric DeCosta on Ronnie Stanley's contract status: pic.twitter.com/o6P7P3YeKY
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) February 27, 2019The deadline to exercise fifth-year options for 2016 first-round draft picks is early May and it will undoubtedly be one of the Ravens' most important offseason decisions.
Stanley, the sixth overall pick in that draft, has been a consistent force at the left tackle spot over the past three years among an ever-so-changing offensive line.
Per Pro Football Focus, Stanley was tied for 2nd in pass blocking efficiency among tackles with at least 200 snaps last season. Stanley missed just two games combined the past two seasons. That's an impressive feat, considering the injuries he's played through.
DeCosta has made his efforts known in trying to lock up some of the organization's top players long-term. Tavon Young recently inked a three-year extension and other players, including Stanley, could be primed for new deals this offseason.
But if the Ravens feel they can't sign Stanley to a new deal, exercising his fifth-year option is the logical choice.
