Dave McGinnis, former Cardinals head coach and longtime NFL assistant, dies at 74
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Former Arizona Cardinals head coach and longtime NFL assistant Dave McGinnis, longtime known simply as “Coach Mac,” died Monday. He was 74.
McGinnis, who had been in declining health, died Monday afternoon at Ascension St. Thomas Midtown Hospital with his family at his side, according to the Tennessee Titans. He had the Titans' color commentator on game broadcasts since 2017 and was a constant presence on radio shows and team podcasts.
Controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk said the Titans will miss McGinnis dearly and will always be grateful for the legacy he leaves. She said her heart aches with this loss of someone who was so much more than a coach and broadcaster. “He was family,” Strunk said.
“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. ” McGinnis went 17-40 for the Cardinals from 2000 to 2003, earning the job after nearly five seasons as defensive coordinator.
He also helped the Cardinals' push for their current stadium before being fired following a 4-12 record in 2003. That was despite a breakout season from receiver Anquan Boldin as the AP’s Offensive Rookie of the Year. Arizona owner Michael Bidwell said in a statement the Cardinals were deeply saddened to hear of McGinnis' death.