On Tuesday afternoon, the Baltimore Ravens promoted long-tome linebackers coach Don “Wink” Martindale to defensive coordinator following the retirement of Dean Pees, according to an article posted today by Ryan Mink of BaltimoreRavens.com.

Martindale, who became the team's linebackers coach in 2012, was also the defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos in 2010. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh made a statement on Tuesday regarding the team's promotion of Martindale to defensive coordinator.

“'Wink' has earned the promotion to defensive coordinator,” Harbaugh said. “His aggressive mentality will serve to take our defense to new levels. He is obviously respected by players, many of whom have already benefited from his direct coaching at the linebacker position. He knows the ins and outs of what we have been about on defense and has been an important contributor to our success on that side of the ball. This is an exciting day for Wink and his family, and also one for the Ravens.”

Baltimore also announced two more coaching promotions from within on Tuesday, as Mike Macdonald replaces Martindale as the team’s linebackers coach and Sterling Lucas will be a defensive quality control coach.

When the Ravens were cleaning out their lockers last week not knowing who their next defensive play-caller would be, star linebacker C.J. Mosley tallied his vote for Martindale.

“He always talked about wanting to be a coordinator,” Mosley said. “I’m a little biased, because I’ve been with him my whole career and I know what kind of a person he is and what kind of a coach he is. As long as he’s here with us, I’ll be happy.”

The Ravens, who were eliminated from playoff contention in absolutely heartbreaking fashion in Week 17, currently possess the 16th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.