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Pat McAfee nearly returned to NFL as emergency kicker for Buccaneers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 8, 2026, 8:27 AM

Last updated Oct 8, 2026

Pat McAfee nearly returned to NFL as emergency kicker for Buccaneers

Summary

Pat McAfee, former NFL player and current sports media personality, was approached by former Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians about a potential return to the NFL during the COVID-19 pandemic. Arians considered McAfee as an emergency kicker, as the team faced player health protocols. McAfee initially showed interest but quickly withdrew when reminded of the drug testing requirements. The conversation highlighted his distinct personality and the possibility of rejoining a championship team, though he ultimately remained in media.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•McAfee retired from the NFL in 2017 after eight seasons.
•Arians contacted McAfee about being an emergency kicker.
•McAfee was receptive until learning about drug testing.
•Tampa Bay won Super Bowl LV during the pandemic season.
•McAfee is a notable figure in sports media post-retirement.

Latest Updates

8:27 AMYahoo Sports — WVU Legend Pat McAfee Nearly Returned to NFL After Retirement

What they're saying

"
The West Virginia Mountaineers football legend Pat McAfee has become one of the biggest personalities in sports media since retiring from the NFL. However, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians recently revealed that McAfee nearly added another unexpected chapter to his professional football career.McAfee retired in 2017 following eight seasons with the Indianapolis […] The post WVU Legend Pat McAfee Nearly Returned to NFL After Retirement appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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