Pat McAfee expands ESPN role and confirms permanent WWE exit

Pat McAfee is expanding his role with ESPN, joining the Monday Night Countdown pregame show for the upcoming NFL season. This addition complements his existing responsibilities, which include hosting The Pat McAfee Show and serving as an analyst on College GameDay. His expanded presence on Monday nights is expected to position him for a significant role in ESPN’s Super Bowl coverage.

Simultaneously, McAfee has confirmed he will not return to WWE. Following a storyline at WrestleMania 42 where he promised to leave the promotion if Randy Orton failed to defeat Cody Rhodes, McAfee has honored that commitment. He addressed fans on social media, stating, “I made a promise that I would never, ever... I will never be seen on WWE television ever again.”

In addition to McAfee’s moves, ESPN is revamping its NFL coverage with former Philadelphia Eagles star Jason Kelce. Kelce will join the Monday Night Countdown crew and will also serve as a game analyst on NFL Network, calling several international games in London and Paris.