Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris died at age 70, the team announced Sunday.
His passing comes less than two weeks after the team said he had been diagnosed with an “acute illness” and would require “ongoing treatment for an extended period of time.”
“‘Joe D.’ was beloved throughout our entire organization and the greater NFL community,” Ravens president Sashi Brown said in a statement Sunday. “He was a passionate and devoted football coach who left an indelible mark on the lives of many. Above all, he was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather who always prioritized his faith and family.
“True to character, âJoe D.’ was a fighter to the very end.”
D’Alessandris was entering his eighth season as the team’s offensive line coach, culminating his 45 years in the profession. With the Ravens, he coached five Pro Bowl offensive linemen: Orlando Brown Jr., Tyler Linderbaum, Ronnie Stanley, Marshal Yanda and Kevin Zeitler.
The Ravens offensive line is coached now by George Warhop, who was hired earlier this month as D’Alessandris took his medical leave.
