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Pat McAfee emerges as leading figure at ESPN over Stephen A. Smith

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 4:10 AM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Pat McAfee emerges as leading figure at ESPN over Stephen A. Smith

Summary

Pat McAfee's role at ESPN has expanded significantly as he prepares to join the Monday Night Football lineup this season. His willingness to engage in various programming and promotional events has contrasted sharply with Stephen A. Smith's recent focus on projects outside the network. By hosting multiple shows and events, McAfee has effectively positioned himself as a central personality for ESPN, while Smith's presence has diminished in comparison. McAfee's collaborative approach serves ESPN's branding efforts, making him a favored choice for high-profile assignments. As the NFL season approaches, the network will further rely on McAfee's expanding platform to drive viewership.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•McAfee joins ESPN's Monday Night Football lineup this season.
•He has hosted events promoting various ESPN projects.
•Stephen A. Smith's recent focus is outside ESPN, diminishing his programming role.
•McAfee has become a central figure in ESPN's branding strategy.

Latest Updates

4:10 AMYahoo Sports — The Debate Is Over: Pat McAfee, Not Stephen A. Smith Is the Face of ESPN

What they're saying

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"For now, the man who once looked like the biggest risk ESPN ever took may actually be the network’s best example of how to maximize the relationship without walking away from the brand that helped build it." The post The Debate Is Over: Pat McAfee, Not Stephen A. Smith Is the Face of ESPN appeared first on Barrett Media.
— Yahoo Sports

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