We have sad news out of the NFL world today as Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris passed away. The Ravens’ social media account confirmed the passing and made a post about the unfortunate situation.
He was hospitalized earlier this month due to an acute illness and was expected to have an extended stay. Unfortunately, he lost his battle and the football world will miss him.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh released a statement following the news of the passing.
“Coach ‘Joe D.’ was a man of integrity and a man of faith. He made us all better,” Head Coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “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. 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. Toni has him back now. May God bless ‘Joe D.’ forever.”
Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images
Baltimore general manager Eric DeCosta also put out a statement, saying it’s a sad day for the Ravens family.
“Today is a sad day for the Baltimore Ravens. ‘Joe D.’ was a rock, a great coach and a better person,” General Manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement. “He cared about the team deeply, exhibiting a relentless passion to excel while displaying genuine love for his players. I especially treasure my conversations with him, talking about football and life. I will always remember standing back with Joe on the practice field and watching him up close with his players. Coach was the consummate teacher and friend, and I will miss him deeply. Our thoughts and prayers go to Joe’s daughters and family and everyone touched by Joe’s remarkable spirit.”
D’Alessandris has been the Ravens’ offensive line coach since 2017. He helped Baltimore become a power-running offensive squad and developed multiple players over the years.
He coached in the NFL for 15 years but has been around football for 45. The veteran coach has also worked with the Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, and Buffalo Bills.
He will be forever missed and the football world mourns his death. Our thoughts go out to the entire D’Alessandris family and all his loved ones.
