Ravens offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris dies at age 70 - ESPN

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris died Sunday morning at the age of 70, the team announced.

D'Alessandris had been hospitalized for the past two weeks with what the Ravens had described as «an acute illness» that required ongoing treatment for an extended period. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said at the time that D'Alessandris had surgery early in the summer, and his illness was a complication from it.

With a coaching career that spanned 45 years, D'Alessandris was Baltimore's offensive line coach since 2017.

«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. I admired him, loved him and am going to miss him, because 'Joe D' was a joy.»

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

The Ravens hired George Warhop as their offensive line coach on Aug. 14, when they announced D'Alessandris' extended absence.

Known as a great teacher and technician, D'Alessandris was one of the most respected figures in the Ravens organization for his kind spirit and warm demeanor. He was the reader at team Mass on game days.

«Today is a sad day for the Baltimore Ravens,» Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement. "'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.

During his