ESPN expands Pat McAfee's role with new NFL programming

ESPN is reportedly expanding the role of Pat McAfee within its NFL coverage. The network is planning to launch a new alternate presentation of ‘Monday Night Football’ during off-weeks of the ‘ManningCast,’ pending NFL approval. This expansion follows the recent announcement that McAfee will join the cast of ‘Monday Night Countdown’ for the upcoming season.

McAfee’s growing presence has drawn criticism from veteran broadcaster Linda Cohn. On her podcast, Cohn questioned the network’s strategy of featuring McAfee across multiple programs, noting his roles on ‘The Pat McAfee Show,’ ‘College GameDay,’ and the upcoming ‘Monday Night Countdown.’

If the new alternate broadcasts are approved, McAfee’s total airtime during certain weeks could approach 18.5 hours of programming. His current roles include his daily program, analysis for college football, and various integrated segments for NFL draft coverage.