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Independence Today
By the People, for the People
Former Cardinals Head Coach Dave McGinnis Dies at 74
McGinnis spent over 50 years in football as a coach and analyst.
Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:04am
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The passing of former Cardinals coach Dave McGinnis marks the end of an era for the franchise, as his passion and enthusiasm for the game left an indelible mark on the NFL.Independence TodayDave McGinnis, a longtime NFL and college football coach who was the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals from 2001 to 2003, has died at the age of 74. McGinnis also held various coaching positions with the St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams, Chicago Bears, and Tennessee Titans over his five-decade career in football.
Why it matters
McGinnis was a respected figure in the NFL coaching community, known for his passion and enthusiasm for the game. His passing marks the end of an era for the Arizona Cardinals franchise, which he led during a difficult period in the early 2000s.
The details
McGinnis took over as the Cardinals' head coach in October 2001 after the team fired Vince Tobin. He went 17-40 in his three and a half seasons as the team's head coach. After his tenure in Arizona, McGinnis spent time as an assistant coach with the Rams and Titans before transitioning to a career in media, working as a radio analyst for the Titans from 2017 to 2025.
- McGinnis died on April 13, 2026.
- He was the Cardinals' head coach from 2001 to 2003.
The players
Dave McGinnis
A longtime NFL and college football coach who was the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals from 2001 to 2003. He also held various coaching positions with the St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams, Chicago Bears, and Tennessee Titans over his five-decade career in football.
Michael Bidwill
The owner of the Arizona Cardinals, who released a statement expressing the team's condolences following McGinnis' passing.
What they’re saying
“We were deeply saddened to learn of Dave McGinnis' passing and extend our heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved him. As Dave often said, he was a 'ballcoach' through and through, and no one ever filled that role with more passion, enthusiasm, and charisma.”
— Michael Bidwill, Cardinals Owner
“The Rams are saddened by the passing of former assistant head coach Dave McGinnis. Our sincere condolences are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
— Los Angeles Rams
The takeaway
McGinnis' passing marks the end of an era for the Arizona Cardinals franchise, which he led during a difficult period in the early 2000s. His passion and enthusiasm for the game of football made him a respected figure in the NFL coaching community, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.
