OWINGS MILLS — Former defensive coordinator Dean Pees is returning to the Ravens in an advisory role for the defense, Ravens coach John Harbaugh confirmed on Wednesday.

The Ravens’ rush defense is ranked No. 1 in the NFL, allowing 60.4 yards per game. However, the pass defense is ranked 31st, allowing 280.2 yards per game.

Pees, 75, was hired as the Ravens’ linebackers coach in January 2010. Two years later, he was promoted to defensive coordinator by Harbaugh and was part of the coaching staff that won Super Bowl XLVII.

“I’m really excited about it,” Harbaugh said. “It’s great – Zach and I talked about that. Zach has been in touch with Dean [Pees] really all the time – he’s been kind of a good sounding board and mentor for Zach – I know they’re very close. Dean and I go back, as you guys know, a long, long way. His football knowledge, and his ability to just put an eye on things and be a great sounding board and a backup for everybody is super good.

“I’m glad he’s here. It’s good to see his face out here, and it can make us better, so I’m happy about that.”

Pees initially announced his short-lived retirement on January 1st, 2018, but just weeks later he was hired as the defensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans under coach Mike Vrabel.

Pees retired again on January 20th, 2020, but one year later he was hired by the Atlanta Falcons as their defensive coordinator under coach Arthur Smith.

At the end of the last season, Pees retired for the third time before accepting the consulting role with the Ravens.

Pees will be at the game on Sunday against the Commanders with the other coaches.