Ravens Part Ways with Defensive Coordinator Don Martindale

The Baltimore Ravens have parted ways with longtime defensive assistant coach Don “Wink” Martindale, the team announced on Friday.

Martindale, 58, had been the Ravens’ defensive coordinator since 2018. Before that, he was linebackers coach in Baltimore from 2012-17, including as part of the team’s Super XLVII victory in 2013.

“After several productive conversations, Don and I have agreed to move forward in separate directions,” head coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “We have had a great run on defense, and I am very proud of what has been accomplished and the work he has done. Don has been a major contributor to the success of our defense since 2012, and especially since he became defensive coordinator four years ago. He has done a great job. 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 for everything he has done in Baltimore.” 

Martindale has gotten buzz as a head coaching candidate in the past. The Ravens finished 2021 25th in yards allowed and 14th in points allowed. The Ravens missed the postseason for the first time since 2017.