Pat McAfee, a multifaceted personality in the world of sports and entertainment, has amassed an impressive net worth of approximately $60 million, with an annual salary of around $17 million.
His journey from a professional athlete to a successful media figure showcases his remarkable versatility and charisma.
Early Life and Education
Born on May 2, 1987, in Plum, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Pittsburgh, McAfee was immersed in sports from a young age.
The son of Tim and Sally McAfee, he displayed exceptional athletic talent early on, excelling in various sports, including soccer and football.
During his high school years, he became a standout multi-sport athlete, but it was his kicking abilities in football that began to draw attention.
College Career
McAfee attended West Virginia University, where he played as a placekicker for the Mountaineers.
Over his collegiate career, he established himself as one of the most prolific kickers in the school’s history, breaking records for points scored and field goals made.
His stellar performance not only helped lead the team to multiple bowl games but also caught the eye of NFL scouts, setting the stage for his professional career.
NFL Career
In 2009, Pat McAfee was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the seventh round of the NFL Draft, coming in at #222 overall. He played for the Colts from 2009 until 2016, making a significant impact during his tenure.
McAfee was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2009 and went on to earn Pro Bowl selections in 2014 and 2016.
His impressive skills earned him a first-team All-Pro honor in 2014, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top punters.
Despite his success, McAfee’s career was marred by injuries, including three knee operations over four seasons, which ultimately led him to retire from professional football in 2017.
Notably, his off-field antics, including a memorable incident involving a drunken attempt to swim across a canal, transformed him into a local celebrity in Indianapolis, enhancing his popularity among fans.
Transition to Media and Entertainment
After retiring from the NFL, McAfee transitioned into the world of sports media, capitalizing on his personality and charm.
He initially joined Barstool Sports, where he launched “The Pat McAfee Show,” a podcast that quickly gained traction.
However, after a disagreement with Barstool management over pay, he left the company in 2018 to establish his own brand, Pat McAfee Inc. (PMI).
Under PMI, McAfee developed several self-produced podcasts, including “The Pat McAfee Show 2.0” and “The Pod,” which focused on sports and gambling.
His ability to engage with audiences through humor and candidness contributed to his growing success.
In 2020, he began hosting a version of “The Pat McAfee Show” on Sirius, further expanding his reach.
Major Deals and Earnings
In December 2021, McAfee signed a lucrative deal with FanDuel, reportedly worth $120 million over four years, with the option to opt out after three years.
This contract made FanDuel the exclusive sports betting partner of his show, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in sports media.
In May 2023, he opted out of the FanDuel deal to join ESPN, signing a five-year contract worth $85 million, which translates to about $17 million annually.
This shift to ESPN allowed McAfee to retain his show on YouTube while bringing his crew along, ensuring his loyal audience would continue to follow him.
His podcasting and media ventures have allowed him to earn significantly more in a single year than he did throughout his entire NFL career.
Real Estate Properties
In terms of real estate, McAfee made a significant investment in 2015, purchasing a sprawling 12-acre property in Indianapolis for $925,000.
The estate features a 10,600-square-foot mansion, horse barn, pool, and picturesque landscapes, reflecting his love for space and nature.
