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Pat McAfee faces backlash after album release amid Trump controversy

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 5:32 PM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

Pat McAfee faces backlash after album release amid Trump controversy

Summary

Pat McAfee encountered significant criticism from NFL fans following his appearance with President Donald Trump during the 2026 Patriot Games in Cleveland earlier this week. In response to the backlash, McAfee promoted his new country album, 'Diary of a Polarizing Figure,' which received negative reviews online. Fans expressed their disdain on social media, condemning both the album and those who listened to it. McAfee's contentious history includes prior controversial interactions with high-profile figures, including Aaron Rodgers and Trump. Despite the criticism, he is reportedly in talks with ESPN for a contract extension valued at up to $65 million annually, running through 2028.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•McAfee welcomed Trump at the 2026 Patriot Games in Cleveland.
•His album 'Diary of a Polarizing Figure' has 14 songs reflecting his life story.
•Fans on social media criticized both the album and its listeners.
•McAfee has a history of controversial appearances with public figures.
•He is negotiating a contract extension with ESPN worth up to $65 million.

Latest Updates

5:32 PMYahoo Sports — ‘Couldn’t Pay Me To Listen to This’ — NFL Fans Mock Pat McAfee for Dropping Country Album ‘The Diary of a Polarizing Figure’

What they're saying

"
Earlier this week, Pat McAfee found himself in the crosshairs of irate fans after he welcomed President Donald Trump to Cleveland and sat with him through the 2026 Patriot Games at SPIRE Academy on Tuesday. The backlash on social media against the “College GameDay” analyst was immediate and widespread.
— Yahoo Sports

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