The NFL world is grieving the loss of a legendary coach and really the entire world of football. From former players and coaches to analysts and members of the media, everyone is sending their thoughts and prayers to the legendary coach but even more so to the legendary man that he was.
Baltimore Ravens Announce Tragic Loss Of Coach
The Baltimore Ravens organization announced the tragic passing of one coach Joe D’Alessandris. He had been the team’s offensive line coach since 2017, and he passed on Sunday morning at 70 years old.
He had been hospitalized earlier in the month due to an illness and the team gave a long and heartfelt message for the man who had such a special impact on the franchise:
“Our hearts ache with grief and sadness upon learning of Coach Joe D’Alessandris’ passing early this morning,” the Ravens announced on Sunday morning.”
“Coach ‘Joe D.’ was a man of integrity and a man of faith. He made us all better,” Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “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.”
D’Alessandris’ football career spanned over four decades, which is one of the main reasons that the entire NFL world is sending their thoughts and prayers out to him, his family, and the entire Ravens organization.
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 25, 2024
NFL World Reacts To The Passing Of Coach Joe D’Alessandris
From analysts to former and current players, the prayers have come on social media from all parts of the NFL world on Sunday. Here are a few of thee many reactions to the heartbreaking news:
“Sad news for the #Ravens. Condolences to all the folks in the building as well as those who have played for, coached alongside and worked with OL coach Joe D’Alessandris. RIP,” said NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
“Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris. Joe D was a wonderful man and a great coach. He was a friend whose conversations and wisdom I treasured and will miss. Enjoy the reunion with your wonderful wife my friend. Godspeed Joe D,” said longtime Ravens broadcaster Gerry Sandusky.
“Horrible news. RIP coach D!” a Ravens fan said.
“What a terrible loss. RIP Coach. Raven forever,” another fan chimed in.
“My heart hurts RIP Coach Joe D,” a third fan added.
Even the controversial Antonio Brown sent his wishes to the coach in two words:
“RIP King,” he wrote.
RIP King https://t.co/QubBMa7TcE
— AB (@AB84) August 25, 2024
From all of at Gridiron Heroics, we send our prayers out to Joe’s family and the entire Ravens organization grieving this loss, and may the legend rest in peace.
Related: Baltimore Ravens Coach Joe D’Allesandris Tragically Passes Away at Age 70
