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Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy bashed ESPN’s latest network layoffs after top names like Ryan Clark and Tom Pelissero were let go.
Sports media is a constantly changing business, but it’s clear that ESPN’s decisions are rubbing some people the wrong way. That includes Portnoy, who has always prioritized keeping his longtime employees at his company.
MORE: ESPN, NFL Network layoff tracker, list of talent let go
Portnoy took to social media Tuesday to address ESPN’s newest round of layoffs. The Barstool Sports leader bashes ESPN for its lack of “loyalty” as restructuring continues at the Connecticut-based sports media giant.
“Another glaring difference between ESPN and Barstool,” Portnoy wrote on X. “When our stars become huge and command tons of money like [Pat] McAfee at ESPN we part ways rather than fire people who have been with us for decades to pay for the one star. Loyalty matters here. At ESPN there is no such thing. Not saying our way is right but just more family versus corporate.”
Many Barstool Sports haters won’t appreciate the sentiment expressed by Portnoy. However, the 49 year old has always made sure that longtime employees are taken care of with lengthy contracts.
Portnoy is also in the unique position of having seen many top talents with Barstool move on to bigger gigs. McAfee, a former NFL punter, briefly held a role with Barstool before taking on significantly larger gigs with FanDuel and now ESPN.
MORE: Skip Bayless ceases chance to attack LeBron James over lengthy NBA free agency decision
Alex Cooper’s “Call Her Daddy” podcast exploded in popularity during the Barstool years. She eventually went off on her own to start a media business of her own.
Meanwhile, Barstool continues to boast top programs like “Pardon My Take,” “Spittin’ Chiclets” and “The Ryen Russillo Show.”
Another glaring difference between ESPN and Barstool. When our stars become huge and command tons of money like Mcafee at ESPN we part ways rather than fire people who have been with us for decades to pay for the 1 star. Loyalty matters here. At Espn there is no such thing.… https://t.co/O9z4Sna8ty
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) July 21, 2026
ESPN is expecting to lay off more employees throughout the week after initial leaks have taken place. The chain reaction started by the company could lead to another huge payday for McAfee as he negotiates his next contract.
MORE: Ryan Clark and ESPN part ways before NFL season begins
Some reports suggest that the former Indianapolis Colts punter could make over $60 million annually with his growing involvement at ESPN. McAfee features on many NFL and college football programs, as well as hosting the popular “The Pat McAfee Show.”
