Joe D’Alessandris, the offensive line coach for the Baltimore Ravens, passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 70.

The team shared the news just 11 days after informing the public that D’Alessandris had been hospitalized due to an “acute illness.”

In a statement, the Ravens expressed, “Our hearts are heavy with sorrow.”

“‘Joe D.’ was a man who lived with immense faith, love, devotion, and inspiration. As a husband, father, grandfather, friend, and coach, he made everyone he met feel uniquely valued.”

“Anyone who had the privilege to be around Joe felt forever enriched by his authentic and uplifting spirit. He had the rare gift of connecting with others, fostering respect, empathy, and kindness, which he spread throughout his daily interactions.”

The phrase ‘force multiplier’ is often used in football to describe someone who enhances the performance of those around them. Joe was that for his team. More importantly, he embodied it as a person, leaving a legacy of love and influence that will endure.

“We offer our deepest condolences to Joe’s family, especially to his three amazing daughters during this heartbreaking time. Now reunited with his beloved late wife, Toni, we believe they are watching over and blessing their loved ones.”

Over his impressive coaching career, D’Alessandris worked in various college and professional programs, including in the Canadian Football League and the World League of American Football. He began his NFL career as an assistant offensive line coach for the Kansas City Chiefs from 2008 to 2009, subsequently coaching the offensive line for the Buffalo Bills and San Diego Chargers before joining the Ravens in 2017.

During his time in Baltimore, D’Alessandris’ offensive line units performed exceptionally, showcasing the diverse talents of two-time league MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson. In 2019, the Ravens achieved a record-breaking 3,296 rushing yards, the highest in a single season in NFL history.

D’Alessandris boasted a 45-year coaching career and faced a considerable challenge in 2024 due to the loss of three starters from the previous season’s lineup. This season was particularly important as the Ravens had finished as the AFC’s top playoff seed and reached the conference championship before being defeated by the Chiefs. Following D’Alessandris’ recent illness, veteran NFL assistant George Warhop joined the coaching staff.

The challenge of replacing D’Alessandris as both a person and a coach now weighs heavily on the team.

In a statement, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh remarked, “Coach ‘Joe D.’ embodied integrity and faith. He improved us all.”

“He was our reader during team Mass and was cherished by everyone. A great coach and a wonderful person, Joe was an honor to call a friend. He raised three remarkable daughters and was a devoted husband. His grandchildren adored him. I admired and loved him, and I will sorely miss him because he was truly a joy. Toni has him back now. May God bless ‘Joe D.’ eternally.”

General Manager Eric DeCosta added, “‘Joe D.’ was a stalwart, an exceptional coach, and an even better person. He cared deeply about the team and exhibited an unwavering passion for success while genuinely loving his players. I will always treasure my conversations with him about football and life. Watching him interact with his players during practice was a privilege.”

“He was the ideal teacher and friend, and I will miss him profoundly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe’s daughters, family, and everyone influenced by his incredible spirit.”

The Ravens are set to play in the NFL’s 2024 season opener, taking on the Chiefs again in Kansas City on September 5.

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