Character made choosing Ronnie Stanley over Laremy Tunsil an easy call for Ravens

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OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The best move in Baltimore Ravens’ draft history happened in 1996, when the team selected Hall of Fame offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden over troubled running back Lawrence Phillips.

Twenty years later, the Ravens once again made a decision that steered them away a player who was heavily linked to them but ultimately came with too many red flags.

Baltimore went with the safer and cleaner pick at offensive tackle, selecting Notre Dame’s Ronnie Stanley over Ole Miss’ Laremy Tunsil at the No. 6 overall pick. Whether Stanley is the most gifted tackle in this draft is debatable. There’s just no argument when it comes to character, especially after Tunsil’s gas mask tweet.

One by one, Ravens officials praised Stanley for his maturity, dedication to the game and intelligence. In other words, he’s the anti-Tunsil.

The Ravens don’t believe this was even a close call. According to a team source, Baltimore had Stanley ranked among its top five players and Tunsil was among the top 15 on its board.

Ronnie Stanley had plenty of reasons to celebrate after being drafted Thursday night. Kamil Krzaczynski/USA TODAY Sports

It all goes back to a sign in the Ravens’ draft room that alludes to past actions predicting future actions. After selecting Stanley, general manager Ozzie Newsome did acknowledge that the video showing Tunsil smoking a substance through a plastic tube played a factor in their decision.

“That’s always a part anytime you get information,” Newsome said. “Our …

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