OWINGS MILLS — Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris died Sunday morning at the age of 70 after an undisclosed acute illness, the team announced.

D’Alessandris had been hospitalized because of an earlier surgery and had taken a leave of absence from the team earlier this month.

“Our hearts ache with grief and sadness upon learning of Coach Joe D’Alessandris’ passing early this morning,” the Ravens said in a statement. “‘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.”

In D’Alessandris’ absence, the Ravens added George Warhop, who has more than 40 years of coaching experience, including 27 seasons guiding NFL offensive lines, to the staff. Warhop has spent time as an offensive line coach with the Houston Texans (2022), Jacksonville Jaguars (2019-21), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2014-18), Cleveland Browns (2009-2013), San Francisco 49ers (2005-08), Dallas Cowboys (2003-04), Arizona Cardinals (1998-2002), and Rams (1996-97).

Ravens coach John Harbaugh was hopeful that D’Alessandris would recover from the illness.

“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,” Harbaugh said. “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.”

D’Alessandris, a 45-year coaching veteran, was entering his eighth season as Baltimore’s offensive line coach. “Joe D” has extensive experience guiding and developing linemen, both in the collegiate ranks and pros.

Since transitioning into the NFL in 2008, D’Alessandris has mentored players for the Chiefs, Bills, Chargers and Ravens. Prior to his time in the NFL, he tutored players in the NCAA, Canadian Football League and World League.

In his seven full seasons in Baltimore, D’Alessandris has mentored several young offensive linemen, including Pro Bowlers Tyler Linderbaum, Ronnie Stanley and Orlando Brown Jr., and veterans such as Pro Bowlers Marshal Yanda and Kevin Zeitler.

In 2023, the Ravens set a single-season franchise record with 26 rushing touchdowns, eclipsed 100 yards on the ground in all 17 regular-season games, and finished with the fifth-highest rushing total (2,661) in team history.

“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 with him, talking about football and life,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said. “I will always remember standing back with 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. Our thoughts and prayers go to Joe’s daughters and family and everyone touched by Joe’s remarkable spirit.”

Team president Sashi Brown added:  “‘Joe D.’ was beloved throughout our entire organization and the greater NFL community. He was a passionate and devoted football coach who left an indelible mark on the lives of many. Above all, he was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather who always prioritized his faith and family.

“True to character, ‘Joe D.’ was a fighter to the very end. Our hearts are broken for his daughters, Kelly, Emily and Anna, and his five grandchildren. We take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his late wife, Toni, whom he loved dearly. His legacy, light and spirit will remain with all of us. Our prayers are with the entire D’Alessandris family during this very difficult time.”