Former Arizona Cardinals Coach Vince Tobin Dead at 79

The Arizona Cardinals lost another member of their family with the passing of Vince Tobin.

The Arizona Cardinals released a statement following the passing of former coach Vince Tobin.

"Our deepest condolences go out to everyone who knew and loved Vince Tobin, and in particular his wife Kathy and their family," Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill said. 

"As head coach of the Cardinals, his steady leadership was a constant and a big part of the success the team enjoyed during his tenure. His football legacy with us is highlighted by the thrilling 1998 season, return to the postseason, and upset playoff win at Dallas. He will also be remembered for his instrumental role in key decisions like drafting Jake Plummer and Pat Tillman.

"More than that, he was a consummate family man and always a class act who positively impacted everyone he encountered."

A cause of death is not known at this time. 

Jake Plummer expressed his condolences via social media:

Coach Tobin gave me my 1st opp 2 lead a group of men&I’ll b 4ever grateful 4 the confidence he instilled n me then & blessed daily by those lessons as I pursue life,❤️purpose&happiness. RIP coach Tobin! I get knocked down, but I get up again, nothings ever going to keep me down. https://t.co/Kaj8i6KiwC

— Jake Plummer (@snakestakes) July 3, 2023

Tobin first began his NFL coaching career with the Chicago Bears from 1986-92 as their defensive coordinator before taking the same role with the Indianapolis Colts from 1994-95. 

In 1996, Tobin was introduced as the head coach of the Cardinals, where he led the team to a 28-43 regular season record over the course of five seasons. Tobin is most remembered for coaching Arizona to their first playoff win in 50 years in 1998. 

He was relieved of his duties in 2000 but returned to a defensive coordinator role with the Detroit Lions the following season 

Tobin also coached at the college and CFL ranks as well.