Dave McGinnis Obituary, Nashville, TN Death: Veteran NFL Coach and Titans Radio Analyst Passes Away at 74

Nashville, Tennessee—Dave McGinnis, the iconic NFL coach and beloved Tennessee Titans radio color analyst, has passed away at the age of 74, leaving behind an indelible legacy in both professional football and broadcasting. McGinnis passed away on April 13, 2026, in Nashville, surrounded by family, confirming the loss of a cherished figure in the sport.

With a coaching career that spanned from 1986 to 2016, McGinnis earned widespread respect for his profound knowledge of football and his ability to shape some of the NFL’s most successful defensive units. He held significant roles with several teams, including the Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals, and Tennessee Titans, where he built lasting relationships with players and colleagues alike.

McGinnis’s leadership shone brightest during his tenure as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals from 2000 to 2003, but his impact was felt long before that. As a defensive coordinator and assistant coach, McGinnis was known for his strategic brilliance and his dedication to mentoring young players. He later moved into assistant coaching roles with the Titans and the St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams, continuing to influence the game until his retirement from coaching.

In 2017, McGinnis transitioned to a new chapter in his career as the color analyst for Titans Radio. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his approachable personality, made him a fan-favorite and an insightful voice for listeners. Whether breaking down complex plays or offering thoughtful commentary, McGinnis became synonymous with Tennessee Titans football and an essential part of the team’s broadcast identity.

Affectionately known as “Coach Mac,” McGinnis was admired for his passion, leadership, and dedication, not only to the game but also to the people he worked with. Former players, coaches, and fans alike have paid tribute to him, remembering him as a mentor, a friend, and a true football lifer.

Born on August 7, 1951, in his native Texas, McGinnis’s football journey began as a defensive back at Texas Christian University (TCU). After completing his playing career, he moved into coaching, where his impact would be felt for more than three decades at both the collegiate and professional levels. His contributions to the sport, especially in the area of defense, helped shape the careers of countless players and coaches.

The loss of Dave McGinnis marks the end of an era for the Tennessee Titans and the NFL as a whole. His passion for the game, leadership, and dedication to the players he mentored will continue to echo through the legacy he leaves behind.

May Dave McGinnis rest in peace, and may his family, friends, and the many individuals whose lives he touched find comfort in the profound impact he made on the world of football.