Buckeyes Legend Ginn Jr. Named First Head Coach of UFL’s Aviators

COLUMBUS, OH – We know the name, we know the ownership, we even know where the Columbus Aviators will play during their inaugural UFL season in 2026. Now, a familiar face to Ohio State fans is ready to lead the team as its head coach.

Former Buckeye and 13-year NFL veteran Ted Ginn Jr. is the first head coach in franchise history, as announced by UFL president and CEO, Russ Brandon.

“Ted Ginn Jr. represents everything that is great about football in the Buckeye state” says Brandon. “A proven winner, Ted combined a winning performance on the field and a deep knowledge of the game with tremendous pride for his home state.”

The 40-year old became a near-household name during his time in Columbus, which included All-American recognition in each of his three seasons donning the scarlet and gray. The Cleveland native begins a new role as a coach, the first of his career.

“When I heard that the United Football league was going to have a football team in Columbus, I wanted to be a part of creating a new winning tradition in this city that is such an important part of my life” says Ginn Jr.

“I can’t wait to start building this team and I ask football fans throughout the state to join the Aviators as they take flight.”

With a roster still to be determined, the Aviators inaugural season kicks off on Friday, March 27th in 2026.