Ted Ginn Jr., head coach of the Columbus Aviators, was arrested on April 11, 2026, in Tarrant County, Texas, for driving while intoxicated (DWI). This incident marks a significant shift in his career, especially considering he was set to lead the Aviators in a game against the Dallas Renegades the following day.
Before this development, Ginn was viewed as a promising coach after being appointed head coach of the Aviators in December 2025. His experience as a former NFL player, where he spent 14 years in the league, had positioned him as a respected figure in the sport.
The decisive moment came early on April 11, when Ginn was stopped by police for traffic violations at 12:58 a.m. He was subsequently arrested and booked into the county jail around 3:30 p.m. that same day. After posting a $1,000 bond, he was released at 8 p.m., just hours before the Aviators’ game.
As a direct consequence of his arrest, Offensive Coordinator Todd Haley will take over head coaching duties for the Aviators’ game on April 12, 2026. This sudden change raises questions about the team’s preparation and morale as they face their opponents without their head coach.
In a social media post, Ginn expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I made a serious mistake and take full responsibility for my actions.” He acknowledged the weight of his role as a leader and the disappointment that comes with failing to meet those expectations.
Russ Brandon, a representative of the Aviators, commented on the situation, saying, “We are aware of an incident involving Head Coach Ted Ginn Jr. over the weekend and are in the process of gathering more information.” This indicates that the organization is still assessing the implications of Ginn’s actions.
Ginn, who will turn 41 on April 12, is known for his impressive career, including being the Big Ten’s career leader in punt return touchdowns with six. His recent legal troubles, however, overshadow his accomplishments and raise concerns about his future in coaching.
As the Aviators prepare for their game, the focus will not only be on the match itself but also on how this incident will affect Ginn’s coaching career moving forward. The ramifications of his arrest could have lasting effects on both his professional and personal life.