Former Cardinals Coach Dave McGinnis Dies at 74

McGinnis was a longtime NFL assistant and color commentator for the Tennessee Titans.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 3:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting in navy, green, and orange hues depicting a football coaching scene, conceptually representing the multifaceted impact of a longtime NFL assistant.The legacy of a respected NFL coach and mentor is commemorated through a cubist interpretation of the game he loved.Today in Nashville

Dave McGinnis, a former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals and longtime NFL assistant, has died at the age of 74. McGinnis spent over 30 years in the NFL, including stints as a defensive coordinator and assistant head coach for several teams. He was most recently the color commentator for the Tennessee Titans' radio broadcasts.

Why it matters

McGinnis was a respected defensive mind who had a long career in the NFL, including a four-year stint as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. His passing is a loss for the football community, particularly in Tennessee where he had been a fixture with the Titans organization for the past decade.

The details

McGinnis began his NFL coaching career in 1986 as a linebackers coach with the Chicago Bears, shortly after the team's Super Bowl win. He spent 10 years in Chicago working under head coaches Mike Ditka and Dave Wannstedt. McGinnis then became the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals from 2000 to 2003, compiling a 17-40 record. After leaving the Cardinals, he joined the Tennessee Titans as a linebackers coach, eventually being promoted to assistant head coach. He remained with the Titans until 2011, when he followed head coach Jeff Fisher to the St. Louis Rams. McGinnis retired from coaching in 2016 and became the Titans' color commentator, a role he held until his passing.

  • McGinnis died on Monday, April 14, 2026 at Ascension St. Thomas Midtown Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee.
  • He had been the Titans' color commentator on game broadcasts since 2017.

The players

Dave McGinnis

A former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals and longtime NFL assistant, who most recently served as the color commentator for the Tennessee Titans' radio broadcasts.

Amy Adams Strunk

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

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.

Burke Nihill

The president and chief executive officer of the Tennessee Titans, who said McGinnis' passion for the team and love for the game came through in every interaction and broadcast.

Jeff Fisher

The former head coach of the Tennessee Titans and St. Louis Rams, who McGinnis worked under as an assistant coach.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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

“His passion for the Titans and love for the game came through in every interaction and every broadcast, and he had a unique way of making everyone around him better.”

— Burke Nihill, President and CEO, Tennessee Titans

The takeaway

Dave McGinnis' passing is a significant loss for the NFL coaching community, as he was widely respected for his defensive expertise and his ability to connect with players and colleagues alike. His long career and impact on the game, particularly with the Titans organization, will be remembered fondly.