Pat McAfee Signals Potential End to WWE Run

The former NFL punter-turned-ESPN personality suggests his time with the wrestling organization may be over.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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In a recent Instagram video, Pat McAfee expressed doubts about a potential return to WWE, where he previously worked as a color commentator and occasional wrestler. McAfee said the wrestling business 'has kind of passed me by a little bit' and that he feels the company is 'in a good spot without me.' While he didn't completely rule out a future WWE appearance, McAfee's comments suggest his days with the organization may be over.

Why it matters

McAfee's potential departure from WWE would mark the end of an era, as he had become a prominent figure in the company in recent years, participating in major events like WrestleMania and the Royal Rumble. His departure could signal a shift in WWE's on-air talent lineup as the organization continues to evolve.

The details

McAfee, who rose to fame as an NFL punter before transitioning to media work with ESPN, had a productive run with WWE. He primarily served as a color commentator but also occasionally stepped into the ring as a wrestler, most recently appearing at a WWE event in Indianapolis last September. However, in a recent Instagram video, McAfee expressed doubts about a potential return, saying the wrestling business 'has kind of passed me by a little bit' and that he feels the company is 'in a good spot without me.'

  • McAfee's last WWE appearance was in September 2025 at Wrestlepalooza in Indianapolis.
  • WrestleMania 42 is scheduled for April 18, 2026.

The players

Pat McAfee

A former NFL punter who has transitioned to a successful media career, primarily with ESPN. He previously worked as a color commentator and occasional wrestler for WWE.

WWE

The professional wrestling organization that has featured McAfee in various on-air roles in recent years.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think you ever say never, especially with the WWE. But right now, it does not feel like something that's supposed to happen. It feels like that business has kind of passed me by a little bit.”

— Pat McAfee (Instagram)

“Awesome news. He's terrible in almost everything he's in. About the only thing he was good at was when he was with barstool. He should go back. Get him off ESPN. We are tired of the middle aged frat bro schtick.”

— Anonymous Commenter (nypost.com)

“I do miss Pat in WWE. Hope we can see an appearance from him down the line.”

— Anonymous Commenter (nypost.com)

What’s next

With WrestleMania 42 approaching on April 18, 2026, it remains to be seen if McAfee will make a surprise appearance at the event, though his recent comments suggest that may be unlikely.

The takeaway

McAfee's potential departure from WWE would mark the end of an era, as he had become a prominent figure in the company in recent years. His exit could signal a shift in WWE's on-air talent lineup as the organization continues to evolve, though his media career with ESPN appears to remain strong.