Ted Ginn Jr. Arrested for DWI in Texas Ahead of Columbus Aviators Game

Ted Ginn Jr., the head coach of the United Football League’s (UFL) Columbus Aviators, was charged with driving while intoxicated in Tarrant County, Texas, this past weekend. The arrest occurred just one day before the Aviators were scheduled to grab the field, forcing the organization to build an immediate change in leadership for Sunday’s matchup.

According to records from the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Department, Ginn was booked on Saturday, April 11, 2026. The Euless Police Department informed WSYX-TV in Columbus that Ginn was stopped at 12:58 a.m. Saturday, at which point he was administered a field sobriety test. Ginn was later released after posting a $1,000 bond.

The timing of the incident created an immediate void on the Aviators’ sideline. With Ginn unavailable for the team’s game against the Dallas Renegades on Sunday, Offensive Coordinator Todd Haley was tapped to handle head coaching duties.

UFL president and CEO Russ Brandon addressed the situation in a formal statement, noting that the league was aware of the incident and was actively gathering more information. “Offensive Coordinator Todd Haley will handle the head coaching duties for the Aviators game on Sunday,” Brandon stated.

Ginn, 41, did not shy away from the incident, posting a statement to his X account on Sunday to address his followers and the football community.

“I want to address the situation that took place over the weekend. I made a serious mistake and take full responsibility for my actions. I’ve always believed in accountability and now it’s my turn to live that standard. I understand the responsibility that comes with being a…”
— Ted Ginn Jr. (@TedGinnJr_19), April 12, 2026

For those following the UFL’s growth, the instability at the top of the Aviators’ roster is a significant development. Ginn was only named the head coach of the Columbus franchise in December, marking a high-profile transition from his storied playing career to the sidelines.

From NFL Star to UFL Sidelines

Before entering the coaching ranks, Ginn was one of the most recognizable names in the NFL for over a decade. A standout at Ohio State, where he was a three-time First-team All-American, Ginn entered the professional ranks as a high-pedigree prospect. He was selected ninth overall in the 2007 NFL draft by the Miami Dolphins.

Over a 14-season career, Ginn became a versatile weapon across six different NFL franchises. He spent time with the Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, New Orleans Saints, and Chicago Bears. His career statistics reflect a player who provided consistent value as both a receiver and a return specialist:

• Receptions: 412
• Receiving Yards: 5,742
• Receiving Touchdowns: 33
• Return Yards: 9,523
• Return Touchdowns: 7

Ginn’s transition to the UFL was seen as a way to bring veteran NFL experience to the developing league. But, his head coaching record with the Columbus Aviators currently stands at 0–2. This latest legal hurdle adds external pressure to a winless start for the franchise.

Note for readers: DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) are terms often used interchangeably in sports reporting, though they can have specific legal distinctions depending on the state jurisdiction—in this case, Texas law.

What Happens Next

The immediate focus for the Columbus Aviators remains their performance on the field under the temporary leadership of Todd Haley. While Ginn has expressed his commitment to accountability, it remains unclear how the UFL or the Aviators organization will handle his status moving forward.

The league has not yet announced any disciplinary actions or suspensions resulting from the Tarrant County charge. As the Aviators look to secure their first win of the season, the organization must now balance the legal proceedings in Texas with the demands of the UFL schedule.

The next official update regarding Ginn’s status with the team is expected following the conclusion of the game against the Dallas Renegades.

Do you think the UFL should implement a mandatory suspension for coaches in these circumstances? Share your thoughts in the comments below.