Four Decades of Coaching Excellence, Leaving an Indelible Mark on the Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are grappling with the profound loss of their revered offensive line coach, Joe D’Alessandris, who passed away at the age of 70. D’Alessandris, affectionately known as “Joe D,” had been hospitalized for the past two weeks, battling complications from surgery earlier this summer. His passing was announced on Sunday, leaving the Ravens organization and the broader NFL community in mourning.
“Joe D” was more than just a coach; he was a mentor, a friend, and a pillar of integrity and faith within the Ravens’ ranks. Having joined the Ravens in 2017, D’Alessandris brought with him a wealth of experience from his 45-year coaching career, which spanned college football, the Canadian Football League, and the NFL. His impact was immediate and profound, mentoring five Pro Bowl offensive linemen during his tenure with the Ravens, including Ronnie Stanley, Orlando Brown Jr., and Marshal Yanda.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh paid tribute to D’Alessandris, recalling his unwavering faith and dedication. “Coach ‘Joe D’ was a man of integrity and a man of 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. I admired him, loved him, and am going to miss him, because ‘Joe D’ was a joy,” Harbaugh said.
Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta also shared his heartfelt memories of D’Alessandris, highlighting the deep bond they shared on and off the field. “Today is a sad day for the Baltimore Ravens. ‘Joe D’ was a rock, a great coach, and a better person. 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,” DeCosta said.
D’Alessandris’ coaching journey began as a graduate assistant at Western Carolina in 1977, and he went on to make significant contributions at every stop in his career, with coaching roles at the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and San Diego Chargers along the way. His loss is felt deeply not only by his immediate family, including his three daughters Anna, Kelly, and Emily but also by the countless players and colleagues he inspired throughout his illustrious career.
As the Ravens look ahead, they carry with them the profound impact of a man who was more than a coach—he was a beacon of faith, integrity, and compassion for everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.
