Ravens offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris dead at 70

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Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris died early Sunday, the team announced. He was 70.

D’Alessandris was hospitalized last week due to an acute illness. The team said at the time that he would require treatment for an extended period of time.

"Our hearts ache with grief and sadness upon learning of Coach Joe D'Alessandris' passing early this morning," the team said.

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Ravens offensive line coach Joe DAlessandris speaks to players on the sideline during the preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles at M&T Bank Stadium on Aug. 9, 2024, in Baltimore. (Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

"’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.

"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 – further spreading those important virtues into the everyday life of the world.

"'Force multiplier' is a football term sometimes used to describe an individual who makes everyone around him better. As a coach, he was certainly that. But far more importantly, it's also a proper characterization of Joe D'Alessandris as a person – someone who undoubtedly created a legacy of love and impact that will live on forever.

Offensive line coach Joe DAlessandris of the Ravens works with players before the game against the Carolina Panthers at M&T Bank