Ravens part ways with defensive coordinator Don 'Wink' Martindale originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
The Ravens have parted ways with defensive coordinate Don "Wink" Martindale, the team announced on Friday.
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"After several productive conversations, Don and I have agreed to move in separate directions," Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said in the team's statement. "We had a great run on defense, and I am proud of what has been accomplished and the work has been done."
Martindale was hired as Baltimore's linebackers coach in 2012, a role in which he served for six seasons before replacing Dean Pees as the team's DC. The Ravens were a menacing force defensively under Martindale's direction his first three seasons, but an injury-ravaged 2021 season led to secondary struggles and an 8-9 finish, good for last in the AFC North. Seven of the Ravens' nine losses came by three points or less.
Baltimore's decline was especially noticeable during the second half of the season. The Ravens became the first team in NFL history to be seeded atop the AFC before missing the postseason altogether six weeks later, according to ESPN Stats and Information.
"Now it is time to pursue other opportunities. Sometimes the moment comes, and it's the right time. I am personally grateful for our friendship and everything he has done in Baltimore," Harbaugh's statement read.
