Joe D’Alessandris dead at 70: Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach passes away in hospital 11 days before NFL season starts
Baltimore Ravens have announced the passing of Joe D’Alessandris, their offensive line coach.
D’Alessandris was 70 years old and in the hospital with what the Ravens called an acute illness.
According to the organization, he had complications following surgery earlier this summer and was expected to require further treatment.
“Coach ‘Joe D.’ was a man of integrity and a man of faith. He made all of us better,” head coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “He was our reader at team mass and he was loved by everyone here.
“He was a great coach and a good person – the kind of person you want to have as a friend. He raised three incredible, beautiful daughters and he was a very loving husband.
Baltimore Ravens announce the passing of coach Joe D’Alessandris at age 70
D’Alessandris has worked for the Ravens since 2017 and was an NFL coach for 15 years
“His grandchildren loved him too. 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.”
D’Alessandris lost his wife Toni in 2022 after 42 years of marriage. He is survived by three daughters.
The Ravens hired George Warhop to cover D’Alessandris. Their season begins in 11 days when they face Super Bowl winners Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 5 at Arrowhead Stadium.
“‘Joe D.’ was beloved throughout our organization and the NFL community,” said team president Sashi Brown. “He was a passionate and dedicated football coach who left an indelible mark on the lives of so many.
‘Above all, he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who always prioritized his faith and family.
“True to his character, “Joe D.” was a fighter to the end. Our hearts are broken for his daughters, Kelly, Emily and Anna, and his five grandchildren.
“We take comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with his late wife Toni, whom he loved dearly.”
D’Alessandris spent 15 years as an NFL coach, working for the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills and Chargers before joining the Ravens in 2017.
He also worked for several college-level teams, including Duke and Georgia Tech.
The Ravens enter the new NFL season as one of the favorites to win next year’s Super Bowl in New Orleans, behind the main contenders the Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers.