Beloved NFL Assistant Coach Passes Away at 70 After Illness Battle

Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris passed away on Sunday morning after bravely confronting an acute illness, as confirmed by the team. His death marks a significant loss for the Ravens organization and the wider football community.

D’Alessandris had been serving as the Ravens’ offensive line coach since 2017. Earlier this month, he took a leave of absence for medical treatment. Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh revealed that D’Alessandris underwent surgery during the summer and faced complications that necessitated his departure from the team.

“Our hearts ache with grief and sadness upon learning of coach Joe D’Alessandris’ passing early this morning,” the Ravens stated in a heartfelt message. “’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.”

Born in 1954, D’Alessandris amassed a wealth of coaching experience across several leagues and ranks, including the Canadian Football League, the World League, and numerous college programs such as Duke, Texas A&M, and Georgia Tech, before making his way to the NFL in 2008. His journey in the NFL began with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he served as assistant offensive line coach.

His career also included significant roles as the offensive line coach for the Buffalo Bills and the San Diego Chargers. Ultimately, he found his home in Baltimore, where he dedicated six seasons to developing the Ravens’ offensive line.

“Coach ‘Joe D.’ was a man of integrity and a man of faith. He made us all better,” Harbaugh shared. “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 adored him as well. I admired him, loved him and will greatly miss him, because ‘Joe D.’ was a joy to everyone around him.”

Hailing from Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, D’Alessandris started his football journey at Western Carolina before beginning his coaching career at Livingston University in 1977.

Ravens GM Eric DeCosta described D’Alessandris as a “rock” for the organization, emphasizing the depth of his commitment and care. “He had a relentless passion to excel while displaying a genuine love for his players,” DeCosta stated. “I especially treasure my conversations with him, discussing both football and life. I will always remember standing back with Joe on the practice field, watching him up close with his players. Coach was the consummate teacher and friend, and I will miss him deeply.”