Dave McGinnis Once Was Bears Head Coach -- And Didn't Know It
The current Titans radio color analyst's pursuit of a 'dream job' turned into a nightmare due to numerous missteps by the venerable franchise.
www.si.comHere’s the latest I can share based on recent reporting.
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Dave McGinnis, a longtime NFL coach and Bears assistant, passed away at 74 on April 12, 2026. The news was widely reported by Chicago outlets and national sports media, marking a notable moment for Bears history and fans who remember his time with the organization.[6][9]
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In the wake of his death, Chicago sports media reflected on his career and legacy, including recollections from former Bears colleagues and local radio/TV personalities. Tributes highlighted his impact as a coach and mentor within the Bears and Cardinals communities.[7][8]
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There has been renewed attention on McGinnis’ untold “what might have been” narrative with the Bears, given past hiring missteps that affected his standing in Chicago in 1999. Contemporary pieces revisit that episode to discuss how ownership decisions shaped his career arc.[3][9]
If you’d like, I can pull more detail from specific outlets (e.g., Chicago Tribune, Daily Herald, SI) or compile a brief timeline of McGinnis’ coaching career and key Bears moments.
Citations:
- Dave McGinnis death announcement and obituary coverage.[6]
- Chicago-area tributes and shows discussing his life and legacy.[8][7]
- Retrospective on his Bears hiring controversy and career trajectory.[9][3]