We have sad news from the NFL world today: Joe D'Alessandris, offensive line coach of the Baltimore Ravens, has passed away. The Ravens' social media account confirmed the death and published a post about the unfortunate situation.

He was admitted to hospital earlier this month with an acute illness and was expected to stay there for an extended period. Unfortunately, he lost his battle and the football world will miss him.

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh issued a statement following news of the death.

“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 the team mess and was loved by everyone here. He was a great coach and a good man – the kind of person you are honored to have as a friend. He raised three incredible, beautiful daughters and was a most loving husband. His grandchildren adored him as well. I admired him, loved him and will miss him because 'Joe D.' was a joy. Toni has him back now. May God bless 'Joe D.' forever.”

Joe D'Alessandris
BALTIMORE, MD – AUGUST 9: Offensive line coach Joe DAlessandris talks with players on the sidelines during the second half of a preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles on August 9 at M&T Bank Stadium.


Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

Baltimore General Manager Eric DeCosta also issued a statement saying this was 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 an even better person,” general manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement. “He cared deeply about the team, exhibited a relentless passion to excel while showing genuine love for his players. I especially cherish my conversations with him when we talked about football and life. I will always remember standing on the practice field with Joe and watching him up close with his players. The coach was the perfect teacher and friend, and I will miss him greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe's daughters and family and all who were touched by Joe's remarkable spirit.”

D'Alessandris has been the Ravens' offensive line coach since 2017. He helped Baltimore become a strong offensive team and developed several players over the years.

He spent 15 years as a coach in the NFL, but has been active in football for 45 years. The experienced coach has also worked with the Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers and Buffalo Bills.

We will miss him forever and the football world mourns his loss. Our thoughts are with the entire D'Alessandri family and all of his relatives.