Joe D’Alessandris Remembered as a Beloved Coach

NFL community is mourning its departure as Baltimore Ravens coach Joe D’Alessandris passed away at the age of 70 following health issues that arose due to the complications from surgery earlier this summer. Recognizable as “Joe D.” among players and staff, D’Alessandris who was on staff since 2017 has become a significant figure among them.

Joe D’Alessandris brought not only a wealth of knowledge as a coach to the Ravens, but his real genius has been his ability to make everyone around him better. With his mentorship, the Raven’s offensive line has been impressively successful in pass-blocking and run-blocking win rates. Throughout the last four years, the Ravens have ranked sixth and eighth in the league, respectively. His contribution to the development of the offensive linemen was highly appreciated, as he took a huge part in the formation of Pro Bowl players Tyler Linderbaum, Ronnie Stanley, etc.

However, his lasting legacy was much more than success on the track. Described by Harbaugh as “ a great man of integrity and a man of faith ”, Joe was a deeply spiritual man, who was running the team mass. Beyond his professional background, he was recognized as a caring person, who could take time with everyone he met and treat them as equals. Taking to the Ravens’ official website for the statement about the late coach and appreciated his invaluable contribution to the team, as well as his unconditional love for the professional career and respect for the players. Executive Vice President & General Manager Eric DeCosta described D’Alessandris as a rock, a great coach and a better person. Expressing the deepest condolences on Twitter, Ravens’ President Sashi Brown highlighted that “ he was loved across the NFL family and known as a discreet, humble, faithful husband and father always putting his faith and family first ”.

As the devastating news is spreading, embracing the realities, and popularizing anecdotes of his mentoring life and wisdom, the outstanding professional and spiritually compassionate player and life coach is remembered across the country and by the entire NFL community. His mark had remained a glaring standard on the field, and his personal approach will always serve as the kind-hearted model and example of the finest coaching practice. Following the departure, George Warhop has been appointed as the interim offensive line coach with Travelle Wharton serving as the assistant. D’Alessandris is survived by three daughters and five grandchildren.