Coach’s cause of death: Baltimore Ravens grieve the loss of beloved coach

The Baltimore Ravens are grappling with the loss of a beloved member of their coaching staff as offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris passed away early Sunday morning.

Ravens coach was a valued member of the franchise

D’Alessandris, who had been hospitalized earlier this month due to an acute illness, was 70 years old.  His death comes just weeks before the start of the 2024 NFL regular season, leaving the Ravens organization and its fans in mourning.

D’Alessandris, affectionately known as “Joe D,” served as the Ravens’ offensive line coach since 2017, becoming a cornerstone of the team’s success in the trenches.  Under his guidance, the Ravens’ offensive line became one of the most formidable in the league, consistently paving the way for one of the NFL’s top rushing attacks.

His expertise and leadership were instrumental in helping Baltimore set a single-season team rushing record in 2019 with 3,296 yards.  Throughout his 45-year coaching career, which spanned college football, the Canadian Football League, the World League of American Football, and the NFL, D’Alessandris was known not only for his technical knowledge but also for his ability to connect with players on a personal level.  The Ravens organization described him as a “force multiplier,” a coach who made everyone around him better both on and off the field.

Our hearts ache with grief and sadness upon learning of Coach Joe D’Alessandris’ passing early this morning. pic.twitter.com/KftNJXEnhd

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 25, 2024

Ravens family grieve coach Joe D

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh expressed his deep admiration for D’Alessandris, highlighting his integrity, faith, and the profound impact he had on those around him.  “Coach ‘Joe D.’ was a man of integrity and a man of faith,” Harbaugh said in a statement.  “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.”

D’Alessandris’ legacy extends beyond his contributions to the Ravens’ success on the field.  He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, known for his warm demeanor and unwavering faith.

The team issued a heartfelt statement, reflecting on the deep connections he forged with everyone he encountered: “Anyone fortunate enough to have spent time with Joe was forever touched by his genuine and uplifting nature. He had the amazingly rare ability to connect with people in a way that deepened respect, empathy, and kindness.”

The Ravens had appointed George Warhop as interim offensive line coach in D’Alessandris’ absence.  D’Alessandris is survived by his three daughters, Anna, Kelly, and Emily, who now carry on the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to faith, family, and football.  His wife, Toni, passed away in 2022 after 42 years of marriage.