Pat McAfee Done With WWE Indefinitely

[Barry Poppins]

https://www.cleveland.com/news/2026/03/pat-mcafee-drops-surprising-wwe-update-as-wrestlemania-nears.html

Sports media star Pat McAfee says he may not return to WWE anytime soon, even as the company prepares for its biggest event of the year, WrestleMania 42, in April. The former NFL punter and popular broadcaster recently shared an update with fans that suggests his wrestling future may be uncertain for now.

McAfee spoke about his status during an Instagram question-and-answer session. A fan asked if he planned to return to WWE soon. McAfee said he does not want to completely rule it out, but right now it does not seem likely. He said the wrestling business “has kind of passed me by a little bit,” adding that WWE appears to be doing well without him.

The 38-year-old became a fan favorite in WWE after joining the company as a commentator and occasional wrestler in 2019. He worked alongside longtime announcer Michael Cole and even competed in several high-profile matches at events such as WrestleMania and the Royal Rumble. His energy and humor quickly made him a popular voice during broadcasts.

McAfee stepped away from regular WWE duties in 2025. At the time, he said the travel and busy schedule had become exhausting. Since then, other commentators have filled the role on WWE programming while McAfee focused on his growing media career.

His main focus now is “The Pat McAfee Show,” which airs on ESPN and other platforms. The show covers major sports stories and features interviews with athletes and celebrities. McAfee also appears on ESPN’s college football coverage and other sports programs. His schedule remains packed throughout the year.

Even though he may not return to WWE soon, McAfee said he still appreciates the opportunity he had with the company. He told fans he grew up loving professional wrestling and was honored to work in the industry. For now, he plans to remain a fan watching from the outside.

 

[Tg11]

Already missing P Mac in WWE

 

[Mitch Buchannon]

Already missing P Mac in WWE

Gross, fuck that piece of shit

 

[Dom's cellmate]

I liked him when he first showed in 2018 for about a year or so after that became annoyed by him.

 

[Blazehausen]

I liked his commentary. As a person uh not so much. He definitely brought energy to the table.

 

[R-Troop]

He was good for WWE when he was here. When he was full time he was great, and he really helped get the fans to realize Michael Cole is amazing at his job. His matches were perfectly fine. Once he got the College football gig he was definitely spreading himself too thin, and his part-time stuff didn't really hit as well.

I think at this point if he gets involved he should be doing the PLE countdowns and post-shows. That's probably where he's best suited if he were to do anything. It's only once a month, and I think that's where his personality shines best hyping up the crowd.

I do wonder if they bring his ESPN show to WWE World again this year like they did in Philly (and I think last year in Vegas don't remember).

 

[Deadd2009]

Indefinitely implies he's not coming back. I feel like he'll be back when his schedule allows.

 

[camdudetenger9]

i wonder if patrick mcafee leaving wwe has to do with his sceduling conflicts with nc double a collage football and his podcast shows plus his family time since he is married with i think 2 small kids now