Columbus Aviators Lose to Dallas Renegades Amid Ted Ginn Jr. DWI Charge

Ted Ginn Jr., the head coach of the United Football League’s Columbus Aviators, was arrested on a driving while intoxicated charge in Texas on April 11, 2026, one day before his team’s game against the Dallas Renegades.

According to records from the Euless Police Department, officers stopped Ginn’s vehicle for traffic violations in the 100 block of W. Euless Blvd at 12:58 a.m. On April 11. Police reports indicate that Ginn was stopped for failing to yield on a turn and subsequently failed a field sobriety test.

Ginn, 41, was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, which is classified as a Class B misdemeanor. He was initially held at the Euless Jail before being transferred to the Tarrant County Jail. He was released after posting a $1,000 personal bond.

Impact on Team Operations

The arrest occurred just before the Aviators were scheduled to play in Frisco, Texas. Ginn did not coach the team during their matchup against the Dallas Renegades on April 12. The Columbus Aviators announced that offensive coordinator Todd Haley would serve as the acting head coach for the game.

UFL officials confirmed they were aware of the incident and stated they were in the process of gathering more information. The legal investigation into the misdemeanor charge remains ongoing.

Game Summary and Results

The Columbus Aviators lost to the Dallas Renegades 28-23 on April 12, leaving the Aviators with a 0-3 record for their inaugural season. The Renegades improved their record to 3-0.

Despite the loss, the Aviators outgained the Renegades in total yardage, recording 288 yards compared to the Renegades’ 225. The Aviators’ offense found early success with quarterback Jalen McClendon leading an eight-play, 60-yard drive that resulted in an 8-yard touchdown pass to former Penn State running back John Lovett.

The Aviators’ defense also showed improvement, with former Kent State cornerback DJ Miller breaking up a pass from Renegades quarterback Austin Reed. This marked the first time the Aviators forced a punt in two weeks, following a game against the D.C. Defenders where they allowed a score on every possession.

However, turnovers proved decisive. While the Renegades played a turnover-free game, McClendon struggled with ball security. With the Aviators leading 10-7 late in the first half, McClendon threw an interception to former Ohio State cornerback Shaun Wade. Wade then threw a lateral to teammate Ajene Harris, who returned it for a 14-yard pick-six, giving the Renegades a 14-10 lead at halftime.

Response from Ted Ginn Jr.

On the morning of April 12, Ginn issued a public apology via the social media platform X, acknowledging the incident which occurred one day before his 41st birthday.

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 leader and role model, and falling short of this is not something I take lightly.

Ted Ginn Jr.

Ginn further stated that he is committed to learning from this, making better decisions, and earning back the trust of my players, our organization, and the fans.

Professional Background

Before transitioning to coaching in the UFL, Ginn was a prominent figure in professional football. After a collegiate career at Ohio State, he was selected as the No. 9 overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft.

Ginn played 14 seasons in the NFL, spending time with six different franchises: the Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, New Orleans Saints, and Chicago Bears.