Former Cardinals Coach Dave McGinnis Dies at 74

McGinnis, known as 'Coach Mac,' had been the Titans' color commentator since 2017.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:42pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, featuring rapid brushstrokes that capture the raw energy and passion of a football coach on the sideline, with the coach's face and details dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of paint.The legacy of 'Coach Mac' lives on through the lasting impact he had on the NFL coaching community and the players he mentored over his storied career.Today in Nashville

Dave McGinnis, a former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals and longtime NFL assistant, passed away on Monday at the age of 74. McGinnis had been the color commentator for the Tennessee Titans' game broadcasts since 2017 and was a fixture on the team's radio shows and podcasts.

Why it matters

McGinnis was a respected defensive mind who spent over 30 years coaching in the NFL, including a stint as the head coach of the Cardinals from 2000 to 2003. He was known for his passion, enthusiasm, and charisma, and had a lasting impact on the organizations and players he worked with throughout his career.

The details

McGinnis went 17-40 as the Cardinals' head coach from 2000 to 2003, despite a breakout season from receiver Anquan Boldin as the AP's Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2003. After leaving the Cardinals, McGinnis spent several years as an assistant coach with the Titans and Rams before transitioning to a broadcasting role with the Titans in 2017.

  • McGinnis died on Monday, April 13, 2026.
  • He had been the Titans' color commentator since 2017.

The players

Dave McGinnis

A former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals and longtime NFL assistant, who passed away at the age of 74.

Amy Adams Strunk

The controlling owner of the Tennessee Titans, who said the team will miss McGinnis dearly and that he was 'family.'

Michael Bidwill

The owner of the Arizona Cardinals, who said the team was 'deeply saddened' to hear of McGinnis' death and that he was 'one of a kind' who will be greatly missed.

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What they’re saying

“He was family. Coach Mac gave so much of himself to this organization over the years, and his passion, loyalty and love for the Titans never wavered. He cared deeply about the people around him, and that kindness and authenticity left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.”

— Amy Adams Strunk, Controlling owner, Tennessee Titans

“As Dave often said, he was a 'ball coach' through and through, and no one ever filled that role with more passion, enthusiasm and charisma. Coach Mac truly loved the game and everything — and everyone — associated with it, especially his players. He was one of a kind and will be greatly missed.”

— Michael Bidwill, Owner, Arizona Cardinals

What’s next

The Titans and Cardinals are expected to hold memorial services and tributes to honor McGinnis' legacy in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Dave McGinnis' passing is a significant loss for the NFL coaching community, as he was respected for his defensive expertise, passion for the game, and positive impact on the players and organizations he was a part of over his three-decade career.