BALTIMORE, MD - SEPTEMBER 11: Wide receiver Steve Smith #89 of the Baltimore Ravens prays after the Buffalo Bills vs. the Baltimore Ravens game at M&T Bank Stadium on September 11, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Tragedy has struck the Baltimore Ravens as their longest-tenured coach has passed away

He is survived by his wife, son and daughter and two grandchildren.

The NFL is in mourning as longtime Baltimore Ravens assistant Clarence Brooks has passed away after a battle with esophageal cancer, per the team.

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Brooks, who was 65, joined the staff in 2005 as the defensive line coach and helped develop Baltimore's defense as one of the most feared in the league.

"We knew he loved his players," his wife Justa said. "Through all of this, we've found out how much his players loved him. We thank everyone for the loving support."

Brooks transitioned to a senior defensive assistant position as he began his battle with cancer.

He is survived by his wife, son and daughter and two grandchildren.