Since Pat McAfee joined WWE’s main roster as a commentator and wrestler in 2021, he’s taken time off during the fall and winter. That’s been to focus on his main job, working for ESPN (and himself) as the host of his own daily YouTube/ESPN talk show, and a regular member of their College GameDay crew. In each of the past three years, McAfee has returned to WWE in January after football season ends. But we’re into March of 2026, and still no sign of Pat Mac.
In a Sunday night (March 8) Instagram Q&A,
McAfee told a fan asking about his next WWE return by saying “it does not feel like it is something that’s supposed to happen” right now:
“Will I be returning to the WWE in the future? I don’t think you ever say never, you know, especially with the WWE. But right now, it does not feel like it is something that’s supposed to happen.
“It feels like that business has kind of passed me by a little bit. I grew up loving it, dreamed to work in it, feel honored that I had the opportunity to work alongside the GOAT Michael Cole. But I feel like WWE is in a good spot without me, and I’ll continue to watch.”
Pat cut his 2025 WWE run short, citing burnout. He and his wife are expecting their second child this year, and McAfee will make the leap to even-more scripted television with a planned four-episode run on Paramount+‘s Taylor Sheridan-created Sylvester Stallone-starring action dramedy, Tulsa King.
Amidst reports of trouble in the ESPN/WWE relationship, seems they’ll have to fix it without a high-profile name appearing on both company’s shows. That likely has nothing to do with McAfee’s decision; his own busy schedule is the most likely explanation. But it’s another angle to this story.
Of course, it’s also WrestleMania season, which makes sharing this link especially relevant…
What’s your reaction to McAfee saying pro wrestling’s passed him by? Bummer we won’t get a few months of his exuberance? Relieved? Expecting a surprise return on Raw tonight?
