Former WWE commentator Pat McAfee negotiating a new ESPN deal that could pay him over $60 million per year

According to The Athletic, ESPN and former WWE commentator Pat McAfee are negotiating a new contract that could pay him between $60 million and $65 million per year, more than double his current compensation package of nearly $30 million annually.

The proposed deal is not finalized and could include a larger role for McAfee in ESPN’s NFL coverage. He currently has two years remaining on his existing agreement, which includes his daily show, appearances on The Pat McAfee Show, his role on College GameDay, and other ESPN projects.

McAfee’s current arrangement is structured differently from most ESPN talent deals, combining a production agreement for his show (which he owns and operates) with separate talent contracts. While his total compensation approaches $30 million annually, he also covers production costs, contributor salaries, and other expenses.

Negotiations are now being handled by TKO/WME executives Ari Emanuel and Mark Shapiro. Their initial proposal reportedly sought $100 million per year, but current discussions have settled into the $60–65 million range. ESPN declined to comment on the negotiations.

As seen during the April 3rd 2026 edition of WWE SmackDown, McAfee was revealed as Randy Orton’s mystery phone caller after he attacked WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. Following his appearance, McAfee published a video with the caption, “I will make a deal with the IWC now..If @RandyOrton doesn’t win at Mania.. I will NEVER be seen OR HEARD on wrestling television AGAIN.” Cody ended up retaining his title against Orton at WrestleMania 42.