NFL assistant coach dies at 70 after battling ‘acute illness’

Baltimore Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris died Sunday morning. He was 70.
The team made the announcement just 11 days after revealing D’Alessandris had been hospitalized while suffering from an “acute illness.”
“Our hearts ache with grief and sadness,” the club conveyed 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.
All things Ravens: Latest Baltimore Ravens news, schedule, roster, stats, injury updates and more.
“‘Force multiplier’ is a football term sometimes used to describe an individual who makes everyone around him better. As a coach, he was certainly that. But far more importantly, it’s also a proper characterization of Joe D’Alessandris as a person – someone who undoubtedly created a legacy of love and impact that will live on forever.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Joe’s family – particularly his three incredible daughters – during this somber time. Now reunited with his late and precious wife, Toni, we know they are smiling down from above and blessing everyone they dearly love.”
After decades of coaching at various college and professional programs, including in the Canadian Football League and World League of American Football, D’Alessandris got his first NFL posting with the Kansas City Chiefs, serving as their assistant offensive line coach in 2008 and 2009. He later had stints coaching the O-line for the Buffalo Bills and San Diego Chargers before joining the Ravens in 2017.
His units in Baltimore typically thrived, complementing the multi-dimensional talent of two-time league MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson. In 2019, the team rushed for 3,296 yards, the most ever by one club in a single season in NFL history.
D’Alessandris, whose coaching career spanned 45 years in sum, was facing a big challenge in 2024 after Baltimore lost three starters from last season’s line, which was a major factor for a team that finished as the AFC’s No. 1 playoff seed and advanced to the conference championship game before losing to the Chiefs. Longtime NFL assistant George Warhop joined the staff when D’Alessandris fell ill earlier this month.
Now, filling D’Alessandris’ void as a man and coach loom as far more daunting challenges for his team.
“Coach ‘Joe D.’ was a man of integrity and a man of faith,” said Ravens coach John Harbaugh in a statement. “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.”
Added GM Eric DeCosta: “‘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. 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.”
The Ravens will play in the league’s 2024 kickoff game, facing the Chiefs again in Kansas City on Sept. 5.
***
Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis on X, formerly Twitter, @ByNateDavis.