Baltimore Ravens part ways with defensive coordinator Don Martindale

The Baltimore Ravens are parting ways with defensive coordinator Don "Wink" Martindale after four seasons, head coach John Harbaugh announced Friday.

"After several productive conversations, Don and I have agreed to move forward in separate directions," Harbaugh said in a statement shared on Twitter. "We have had a great run on defense, and I am very proud of what has been accomplished and the work he has done."

Martindale was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2018 after previously serving as the Ravens' linebackers coach from 2012-2017. He was on the Ravens' coaching staff that won Super Bowl 47 in 2013.

"Don has been a major contributor to the success of our defense since 2012, and especially since he became defensive coordinator four years ago," Harbaugh continued. "He has done a great job."

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Harbaugh said it's "now time to pursue other opportunities."

"Sometimes the moment comes, and it's the right time," Harbaugh said. "I am personally grateful for our friendship and for everything he has done in Baltimore."

Martindale's unit was No. 1 in total defense in 2018, fourth in 2019 and seventh in 2020. They were second, third and second in points against from 2018-2020, respectively. But the unit fell apart this past season, finishing 25th in yards against and 19th in points.

The Baltimore Ravens ended their injury-riddled 2021-22 season with an 8-9 record, with the defense finishing No. 1 in the NFL against the run but No. 32 against the pass. The Ravens missed the playoffs this year for the first time since 2017.

Read the full statement here:

RAVENS: Injury-plagued Ravens couldn't hold on after strong start

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ravens part ways with defensive coordinator Wink Martindale