Joe D’Alessandris, a revered offensive line coach with a 45-year career in college and the NFL, passed away at 70 on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and service, according to the Ravens.

D’Alessandris, who joined the Ravens in 2017 and played a key role in the franchise's offensive success, including a record-setting rushing season in 2019, died after battling an acute illness. His passing not only marks the loss of a dedicated coach but also highlights the challenges the Ravens face as they adapt to life without his leadership on the offensive line.

The team announced that D’Alessandris had been hospitalized earlier in the month, revealing the seriousness of his condition. His influential presence was felt strongly throughout his time with the Ravens, where he was known not only for his coaching skills but also for his unwavering commitment to the players under his guidance.

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh expressed deep sorrow over D'Alessandris' passing, calling him a man of integrity and faith. 'Joe was not just a great coach but also a remarkable person who inspired everyone around him,' Harbaugh stated, emphasizing the profound impact D’Alessandris had on the Ravens organization and its players.

Prior to joining the Ravens, D’Alessandris amassed an extensive coaching resume, which included positions with the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and San Diego Chargers. His collegiate coaching tenure featured roles at notable institutions such as Georgia Tech, Duke, Pittsburgh, and Texas A&M, showcasing his widespread influence in developing players at various levels of the sport.

Throughout his career, D’Alessandris was recognized for his ability to build strong offensive lines. The highlight of his coaching journey came in 2019, when he led the Ravens' offensive line to a franchise-record rushing performance, racking up 3,296 yards, a testament to his skill in coaching and player development.

In the wake of his illness, the Ravens have already begun addressing the significant void left by his absence. Garrett Warhop has joined the team as part of the coaching staff, indicating the urgency in maintaining the offensive line's performance as they face challenges heading into the 2024 season. The team will need to adjust quickly, especially after losing three starters from the previous year's line during the offseason.

D'Alessandris is survived by his three daughters, who continue to carry on his legacy of faith and dedication. His family faced their own hardships, as his wife, Toni, passed away in 2022 after a battle with a rare form of Parkinson’s disease. The challenges the D’Alessandris family faced were compounded by Joe’s health struggles, further marking his life as one of resilience in the face of adversity.

As fans and colleagues remember Joe D'Alessandris, reflections on his life indicate a profound respect and admiration for his character and contributions to football. The team’s statement highlighted D'Alessandris as a figure who showed boundless faith, love, and devotion throughout his life, underscoring the personal relationships he developed within the sport.

His influence extended beyond just technical coaching; D’Alessandris was known for instilling a sense of unity and purpose among his players. Former athletes have shared their gratitude for his mentorship, citing that they not only improved as players under his guidance but also grew as men.

The Ravens will hold a moment of silence to honor Joe D'Alessandris in their upcoming game, reflecting the collective admiration and grief felt by the organization and its supporters. As the team prepares to move forward, D’Alessandris will undoubtedly be remembered for his impactful contributions both on and off the field.