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The Baltimore Ravens are dealing with tragedy ahead of the NFL season.
On Sunday morning, the team announced that offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris had passed away after being in the hospital dealing with an “acute illness.”
Awful news. Ravens OL coach Joe D'Alessandris died this morning, the team announces. D'Alessandris, who coached for parts of five decades, was 70. He had been in the hospital for the past couple of weeks with what the team described as an "acute illness."
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) August 25, 2024
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 head coach John Harbaugh released a statement following D’Alessandris’ death.
“Coach ‘Joe D.’ was a man of integrity and a man of faith. 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.”
“He raised three incredible, beautiful daughters, and he was a most loving husband. His grandkids also adored him. I admired him, loved him and am going to miss him, because ‘Joe D.’ was a joy. Toni has him back now. May God bless ‘Joe D.’ forever.”
Ravens GM Eric DeCosta also released a statement.
Via Jeff Zrebiec
“Today is a sad day for the Baltimore Ravens. ‘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 w/him, talking about football and life. I will always remember standing back w/Joe on the practice field and watching him up close with his players. Coach was the consummate teacher and friend, and I will miss him deeply.”