How much does Pat McAfee make on College Gameday?

Pat McAfee has become a well-known sports media figure - known for his lively personality and sharp commentary. Today, he’s an essential part of ESPN’s College GameDay, where his energy and insight bring an exciting edge to college football coverage.

Additionally, McAfee’s move to ESPN with “The Pat McAfee Show,” a popular sports talk show now under a multiyear agreement, has solidified his standing in sports media.

McAfee’s transition from a former NFL punter to a prominent media figure highlights his broad appeal. His enthusiastic presence on College GameDay adds a fresh dynamic to sports commentary, capturing fans’ attention.

How much does Pat McAfee make on College Gameday?

In 2023, he signed a substantial contract with ESPN valued at $85 million over five years. This contract, which breaks down to an impressive $17 million per year, reflects McAfee’s influence in the industry.

Although his exact earnings for College GameDay aren’t specified, it’s clear that McAfee’s total income from ESPN includes a major analyst role and his show, making him one of ESPN’s highest-paid sports personalities.

Besides his ESPN contract, McAfee’s “The Pat McAfee Show,” which streams on YouTube, remains a strong revenue source. The show’s continued popularity ensures McAfee a significant annual income, which boosts his net worth considerably. McAfee’s net worth is estimated to have reached $60 million.

McAfee initially earned $15 million during his NFL career, averaging $1.85 million per season over eight years with the Indianapolis Colts.

After retiring from the league at age 29 due to injuries, McAfee quickly moved to media, finding immense success and value in sports broadcasting.

The Value Behind The Pat McAfee Show

In 2021, McAfee’s show struck a four-year, $120 million deal with FanDuel. However, after just 18 months, McAfee chose to move on from the FanDuel contract, paving the way for his ESPN agreement. Though the ESPN deal is valued at $85 million over five years, less than the FanDuel offer, it allows the show to stay on YouTube while simulcasting on ESPN+.

ESPN executive Buke Magnus praised McAfee’s dedication on ‘Tuned In,’ citing his openness to feedback and commitment to improving his craft. (27:30 onwards)

“Yes, he (Pat McAfee) has done some things and said some things that required us to have conversations," Magnus said. "It’s a very productive relationship that he has with myself, with Jimmy, and Mike Foss, who essentially runs the show."

"Pat is extremely open. Never once has he been like, despite the construct of the relationship, ‘I don’t want to talk to you guys, leave me alone.’ … It’s never been any of that. It’s always been like, ‘How can I get better?’ He appreciates the megaphone that ESPN provides to him—and to his aspirations and his business,” he added.

Alongside The Pat McAfee Show, McAfee appears in various sports contexts. He also has a contract with WWE as a color commentator and occasional wrestler, further expanding his sports presence.