Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley was the unanimous choice for AFC North Rookie of the Year by the four reporters covering the division for ESPN.com.
Jamison Hensley, Baltimore Ravens reporter: This is a tough one because the division didn't have a star rookie like Ezekiel Elliott, Dak Prescott or Joey Bosa. The decision comes down to Stanley and Steelers cornerback Artie Burns. The nod goes to Stanley, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2016 draft. He allowed only three sacks all season while blocking Joe Flacco's blind side. Stanley was also the NFL's best left tackle over the last four weeks of the season, according to Pro Football Focus. Some will go with Burns, but he gave up the most touchdown passes by a rookie corner this season.
Jeremy Fowler, Pittsburgh Steelers reporter: Steelers cornerback Artie Burns makes a compelling case after a three-interception rookie season, but Stanley looks the part of a high-level NFL tackle. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said after the season that Stanley has the makings of an elite player, easing the impact of Kelechi Osemele's loss during the offseason. Stanley gets the nod over the others because he acquitted himself well at one of the league’s hardest positions for rookies to handle.
Katherine Terrell, Cincinnati Bengals reporter: There wasn’t one particular standout in this year’s group of rookies. While Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd did some nice things for Cincinnati, finishing with 603 receiving yards, it wasn’t enough to elevate him above the others. There could be a case made for either Burns or Stanley. Stanley has the slight edge here after finishing the second half of the second on a high note, allowing only one sack and seven hurries during the final six games of the season. Pro Football Focus rated him as the best pass-blocking offensive tackle during that stretch, which is very impressive for a rookie considering the nuances of the position.
Pat McManamon, Cleveland Browns reporter: In Stanley, the Ravens have a guy who could hold the position for several years. The Ravens were pleased this player fell to them in the draft.