NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Dave McGinnis brought a distinct energy to Titans Radio as the color analyst alongside Mike Keith and, in his final season, Taylor Zarzour — a presence that will be difficult to replace after his death Monday.
McGinnis, who replaced Frank Wycheck in the role in 2017, was 74. He had been ill since at least late February.
But McGinnis first became familiar to football fans in and around Nashville as Jeff Fisher’s linebackers coach in 2004. He brought high-level experience, having taken over as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals midway through the 2000 season and holding the job for three full seasons.
For Fisher, McGinnis grew into a trusted consigliere during eight seasons in Nashville and another five with the Rams in St. Louis and Los Angeles as his assistant head coach.
With Titans Radio, McGinnis grew into the franchise's biggest promoter, with constant appearances on the talk shows of the franchise's flagship radio station, 104.5 The Zone, as well as the team's own programming. His banter with Keith and Zarzour could produce compelling reviews of what had just unfolded, prescient thoughts on what was about to come and comedic gems about inconsistent officiating.
— Ashley Farrell (@ashleynfarrell) April 14, 2026
In August of 2018, I stood side-by-side with McGinnis for a Titans' training camp practice, trying to watch it and understand it through his eyes. That produced this piece.
He explained why he liked to watch from the deep middle of the defensive end of the field, talking me through defensive bogeys, rack breaks of offensive personnel, quarterback timing and more.
McGinnis was always a generous resource with time to answer questions and a deep contact list he was willing to share, frequently willing to connect me with people who helped me with stories. I was grateful for his counsel and friendship and will miss him.
The team issued comments from Amy Adams Strunk and Burke Nihill after the Titans announced news of McGinnis' death.
Amy Adams Strunk:
“My heart aches with the loss of Coach Mac, who was so much more than a coach and broadcaster—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. He held a very special place in our family, and his presence in our lives and within this franchise will never be forgotten. We will miss him dearly, and we will always be grateful for the legacy he leaves behind.”
Burke Nihill:
“Our hearts are broken. Coach Mac was a treasure. He poured his heart into everything he did—as a coach, a broadcaster, and a mentor to so many. He taught generations of players and colleagues not just about football, but about toughness, integrity, and how to carry yourself the right way. 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. He truly embodied what it means to be a Titan, and he will be deeply missed.”