Make no mistake about it. ESPN is not getting back into business with Pat McAfee because it is chasing what is popular. Jimmy Pitaro told Richard Deitsch that the second the former Colts punter told ESPN he was leaving in 2020, the company started trying to figure out how to get him back.
“From the day he left, we all wanted Pat back at ESPN, starting with College GameDay, Pat and I agreed that he and I would try to figure this out together, which is what happened.”
The ESPN President made it clear to The Athletic’s media writer that he does not regularly get involved with talent negotiations or recruiting. That is how strongly he felt about Pat McAfee.
“As I’ve told you in the past, I have a tremendous amount of respect for our talent department, and they do fantastic work. My job is to make their lives easier, not harder. Sometimes me getting involved and in the weeds creates challenges. Again, while somewhat of an anomaly, it worked out well this time. There’s no ambiguity when talking with Pat; he’s very clear on what’s important to him and what’s not, and I appreciate that as it makes it all easy.”
Pat McAfee himself told Deitsch that he was impressed by the persistence of Jimmy Pitaro. After all, at one point ESPN forbade its talent from making appearances on McAfee’s radio show. McAfee said that plenty has happened since then that made it clear to him that he and Pitaro were a good fit.
“Since our first conversation, he seemed to understand me a good bit more than most TV execs,” he said. “(Pitaro) has been nothing but cool to me. I’m very thankful for that. The national championship invite was an insanely nice gesture. That type of s— goes a long way with me.”
Jimmy Pitaro said that in his eyes, finding a way to get McAfee back to Bristol was a no-brainer. He has proven on his radio show, WWE programming, and on countless appearances on the network that he checks every box ESPN wants in its talent.
“His top attributes are exactly what we look for — he’s willing to say what he believes, he is genuine, incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. He resonates strongly among young fans, and he has a significant and engaged social presence. He’s that rare talent that both my teenagers and I find compelling.”
ESPN signed McAfee to a two year deal. He begins his tenure as part of the College GameDay cast this week in Austin, Texas.
