ESPN may be canceling one of its most followed programs to make room for Pat McAfee, the network’s newest prized addition.
Last week, it was confirmed that McAfee and ESPN reached an agreement on a mammoth contract that will see the popular sports personality and former NFL punter bring is show over to the Worldwide Leader in Sports.
Now, Michael McCarthy and A.J. Perez of Front Office Sports are reporting that McAfee’s show may be moved into the afternoon television slot currently occupied by Max Kellerman and his program, This Just In:
“Max Kellerman’s “This Just In” TV show could be the first victim of ESPN’s big bucks Pat McAfee hire.
ESPN will likely pave the way for the addition of “The Pat McAfee Show” by canceling Kellerman’s weekday afternoon program, sources told Front Office Sports.
But that possible change is one of many The Worldwide Leader is considering, as one source told FOS that ESPN is looking to trim up to $30 million in salary by the end of June. Those working on NFL and NBA coverage will be hardest hit, although the talent outside those two sports will be impacted.”
Kellerman’s This Just In program airs on weekdays from 2 p.m. EST to 3 p.m. EST. The 49-year-old previously worked with Stephen A. Smith on ESPN’s First Take show, replacing Skip Bayless after the latter left for FOX Sports.
McAfee was in the midst of a four-year deal with FanDuel to run his popular show worth a whopping $120 million. The ex-Pro Bowl punter and occasional WWE wrestler signed the deal with FanDuel in late 2021.
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The 36-year-old McAfee played for the Indianapolis Colts from 2009 to 2016, even reaching the Super Bowl in his rookie year (they fell to the New Orleans Saints). McAfee earned 2014 First-team All-Pro honors and was named to two Pro Bowls during his career.
McAfee retired from football in 2017 and began his booming sports media career. McAfee is also employed as an analyst for ESPN’s College GameDay program.
