TARRANT COUNTY, Texas — Former NFL wide receiver and current United Football League (UFL) head coach Ted Ginn Jr. was arrested on a driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge in Texas just hours before his team was scheduled to play, sparking widespread controversy across the football community.
Authorities confirmed that Ginn was arrested in Tarrant County on April 11, 2026, after being stopped by police during the early morning hours on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. He was later booked into custody and released on a $1,000 bond. Officials have not released additional details surrounding the traffic stop, and the case remains under investigation.
Arrest Comes on Game Day
The timing of the arrest drew significant attention, as it occurred only hours before Ginn’s team, the Columbus Aviators, were set to face the Dallas Renegades. Following the incident, offensive coordinator Todd Haley assumed head coaching duties for the game while the organization addressed the developing situation.
UFL officials acknowledged the arrest and stated that they are reviewing the matter and gathering additional information before determining any potential disciplinary action.
Ginn Responds to Incident
In a public statement following the arrest, Ginn acknowledged responsibility for his actions and expressed regret, saying he made a serious mistake and intended to learn from the situation. He also stated that he hopes to regain the trust of his team, supporters, and organization.
His response has been widely circulated among fans and analysts, many of whom are closely monitoring how the league and team will respond moving forward.
Impact on Columbus Aviators
The incident has placed additional pressure on the Columbus Aviators during a critical moment in the team’s season. Ginn, in his first year as a professional head coach, had been viewed as a key figure in the franchise’s leadership and development.
With his legal situation ongoing, questions now remain about his short-term coaching status and whether further disciplinary measures could follow from the UFL or team management.
NFL Legacy and Coaching Transition
Before entering coaching, Ted Ginn Jr. enjoyed a long and successful NFL career after being selected in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft out of Ohio State.
Over 14 seasons, he played for multiple teams including the Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, New Orleans Saints, and Chicago Bears. He earned a reputation as one of the league’s most dangerous return specialists and a reliable deep-threat receiver.
His move into coaching generated excitement among fans, particularly in Columbus, where his ties to Ohio State and the new UFL franchise helped build anticipation around the Aviators.
League Review Ongoing
The UFL has confirmed that the situation remains under review. Officials have not announced any penalties or disciplinary decisions, noting that actions will depend on the outcome of ongoing evaluations.
Legal proceedings in the DWI case are also continuing, and no final judgment has been made.
Fan and Public Reaction
The arrest quickly spread across social media and sports platforms, drawing mixed reactions. While some fans expressed disappointment in the former NFL star, others emphasized that the legal process should be allowed to run its course before conclusions are made.
The incident has also raised broader concerns about leadership accountability within professional sports coaching ranks.
What Happens Next
As investigations continue, both the UFL and the Columbus Aviators are expected to monitor developments closely. Ginn’s future with the team may depend on the outcome of his legal case and the league’s internal review.
For now, the situation remains unresolved, with significant attention focused on how the league and organization will respond in the coming days and weeks.