The Philadelphia Eagles signed running back Saquon Barkley on Tuesday to a reported two-year, $41.2 million contract extension. Barkley had previously signed a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Eagles as a free agent last March. This news comes after a dominant season in which Barkley rushed for over 2,000 yards, leading the Eagles to their second Super Bowl championship.
The announcement of Barkley’s new contract broke during ESPN’s airing of The Pat McAfee Show in the one o’clock hour. During the segment, the former Colts punter turned multi-media star hinted at incoming news through text messages he was receiving.
“This is an interesting time for our program,” said McAfee. “I’m just sitting waiting on a text message. If I could put that eyeball emoji out, I’d put that eyeball emoji out right now. Hey, something’s coming. Anytime you see me put the eyeball emoji out, it’s me saying I know what’s about to come out.”
McAfee has built a reputation for breaking major sports news stories on his program. Most recently, he was the first to report that Travis Kelce would be returning to the Kansas City Chiefs for the upcoming NFL season. Referring to his sources as “Source-Says,” McAfee’s access to insider information has drawn criticism from some in sports media. Many believe his connections with players and agents give him an unfair advantage in breaking news.
One of McAfee’s most outspoken critics is Fred Toucher of 98.5 The Sports Hub, who recently shared his disdain for McAfee and his broadcasting style.
“Pat McAfee sucks, and if you listen to him, you’re an idiot,” Toucher said. “You really might be an idiot, and the best is, ‘You don’t get it.’ Oh no, I get it. He works for Disney. This isn’t some guy on pirate radio here changing the way the game’s played.”
On Tuesday, McAfee jokingly addressed the idea of fully embracing the role of a sports insider.
“You know what, everyone f*****g hates me already,” McAfee said. “I don’t want to get into the ‘insider world’ just to piss people off. I already have enough people saying terrible things about me. So, forget it. Maybe I do get into the ‘insider world?’ Good luck, Starbucks stare-down guys. There might be a new pecking order in this entire game.”
Despite the criticism, McAfee acknowledged that being recognized in the ‘insider world’ is an honor, as it reflects the trust that people have placed in him and his show.
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