SerpApi.Org
Pat McAfee had nothing to worry about when ESPN was conducting a round of layoffs this week, letting go of the likes of NFL analyst Ryan Clark and longtime MLB host Karl Ravich.
McAfee welcomed former NFL Defensive Player of the Year JJ Watt, a recurring guest on the program, to discuss the NFL offseason. The former Houston Texans defensive end couldn't help but sneak in a comment about ESPN's layoffs as the list of every big name let go emerged.
"Slow, slow news day over there on the ESPN airwaves, huh?" Watt teased the host. He then mentioned McAfee's large salary, perhaps trying to goad the former NFL punter into a reaction after a second huge name was fired after a 33-year stint.
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"I mean, besides the fact that you're getting $100 million… Did they keep anybody? Or is everybody fired to pay you? I'm trying to figure that out," Watt said.
McAfee remained composed but became stern. "We do not appreciate that," he answered. "That is the narrative, and I'm certainly taking it on the shins. The boys and I are very proud of the work that we have done. Thanks."
McAfee's production company, Pat McAfee Inc, earns between $60 and $65 million annually from ESPN. "Don't be reading the internet like that," McAfee told Watt. "OK, you're smarter than that."
Clark and Ravech weren't the only two let go from ESPN. NFL analyst Cam Newton, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, NFL injury analyst Stephania Bell, SportsCenter anchor David Lloyd, NFL Network analyst Charles Davis, Boxin reporter Andreas Hale, and others were also axed.
"We hate anytime this happens," McAfee told Watt. "Obviously, this is terrible. We don't like that, but we are very honored that we are still partnering with ESPN and Disney for the good of sport for the future."
ESPN has pivoted from a news source to an entertainment network in recent years, spending most of its money on a handful of expensive talking heads (McAfee and Stephen A. Smith) and live sports.
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SportsCenter has lost its popularity from its early 2000s heyday, with only anchor Scott Van Pelt possessing the moxy from yesteryear.
ESPN has to penny-pinch in order to save money for live sports bidding. They used to compete with networks like FOX, NBC, and CBS, but now their parent companies are flush with cash. Also, new bidders like Apple, Amazon, Netflix, and others have entered the sports streaming arena.
ESPN, owned by Disney, doesn't seem to be changing its approach anytime soon.
