Ravens Offensive Line Coach Joe D'Alessandris Passes Away at 70

The Baltimore Ravens announced the passing of esteemed offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris on Sunday. D'Alessandris, 70, had been hospitalized due to an acute illness last week.

The Baltimore Ravens organization was deeply saddened to announce the passing of offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris on Sunday morning. D'Alessandris, 70, had been hospitalized last week due to an acute illness.

"Our hearts ache with grief and sadness upon learning of Coach Joe D'Alessandris' passing early this morning," the Ravens said in a statement. "Joe D.' lived a life of boundless faith, love, devotion, and inspiration. As a husband, father, grandfather, friend, and coach, Joe made every individual he encountered truly feel like they were the most important person in the world."

Ravens Offensive Line Coach Joe D'Alessandris Passes Away at 70

D'Alessandris' impact extended far beyond the football field. He possessed the innate ability to connect with people on a profound level, fostering respect, empathy, and kindness in all he touched. His unwavering belief in the power of human connection created a lasting legacy of love and impact that would continue to inspire generations to come.

"Force multiplier" is a football term often used to describe an individual who elevates the performance of those around them. As a coach, D'Alessandris was the epitome of this concept. But more importantly, he embodied this principle as a person, leaving an enduring mark on countless lives.

Ravens Offensive Line Coach Joe D'Alessandris Passes Away at 70

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh paid tribute to his late colleague, saying, "Coach 'Joe D.' was a man of integrity and faith. He made us all better. He was our reader at team Mass, and he was loved by all here."

"He was a great coach and a good man – the kind of person who you are honored to have as a friend," Harbaugh continued. "He raised three incredible, beautiful daughters, and he was a most loving husband. His grandkids also adored him. I admired him, loved him, and am going to miss him, because 'Joe D.' was a joy."

Ravens Offensive Line Coach Joe D'Alessandris Passes Away at 70

D'Alessandris' remarkable career spanned over four decades, including stints in the National Football League (NFL), Canadian Football League (CFL), World League of American Football (WLAF), and college football. He started his coaching journey as a graduate assistant at Western Carolina in 1977, later holding positions with Livingston (now West Alabama), Southern Miss, Memphis, and Middle Tennessee State.

In 2008, D'Alessandris joined the NFL as an assistant offensive line coach for the Kansas City Chiefs. He subsequently worked with the Buffalo Bills, San Diego Chargers, and finally, the Baltimore Ravens in 2017.

D'Alessandris was known for his unwavering commitment to his players, both on and off the field. His passion for mentoring and developing young talent was evident in the numerous players he guided to success.

The Ravens organization extended its deepest condolences to D'Alessandris' family, especially his three daughters. "We know they are smiling down from above and blessing everyone they dearly love," the statement concluded.

The passing of Joe D'Alessandris is a profound loss for the Ravens, the football community, and all who knew him. His legacy of love, inspiration, and unwavering belief in the power of human connection will continue to resonate for generations to come.