Pat McAfee, the former NFL punter who transitioned into a popular role with WWE, doesn’t foresee a return to the wrestling organization in the near future. McAfee indicated he feels the business has moved on, and he’s content with that reality, even as too acknowledging a fulfilling chapter in his career.
During an Instagram Q&A session on Sunday evening, McAfee addressed his future with WWE, stating, “Will I be returning to the WWE in the future? I don’t think you ever say never, you know, especially with the WWE. But right now, it does not feel like it is something that’s supposed to happen.” He continued, “It feels like that business has kind of passed me by a little bit. I grew up loving it, dreamed to work in it, feel honored that I had the opportunity to work alongside the GOAT Michael Cole. But I feel like WWE is in a excellent spot without me, and I’ll continue to watch.”
McAfee’s departure from regular WWE commentary came in July 2025, a decision he attributed to burnout stemming from a demanding schedule. He juggled responsibilities with WWE, his daily “Pat McAfee Show,” and his commitments to ESPN’s college football coverage. He explained the need to prioritize family and rest, citing mental and physical exhaustion from constant travel. He did make a recent appearance at WWE Wrestlepalooza in Indianapolis last September, his adopted hometown.
The multi-talented McAfee is currently expanding his acting career, set to appear in four episodes of the Paramount+ series “Tulsa King” alongside Sylvester Stallone. He’s also slated to play a drill instructor in the upcoming Netflix film “The Mosquito Bowl.” McAfee and his wife, Samantha, announced in November they are expecting their second child.
McAfee’s journey with WWE began as a guest commentator for NXT in 2020, quickly leading to a rivalry with Adam Cole and his in-ring debut at NXT TakeOver XXX. He later joined the SmackDown announce team in April 2021 alongside Michael Cole, bringing energy and quick wit to the broadcasts, according to WWE’s official website. His WrestleMania debut in Dallas saw him battling Theory and even receiving a Stunner from “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.
However, McAfee’s last match in WWE was a loss against Gunther at WWE Backlash 2025, as reported by ClutchPoints. He had previously expressed a willingness to return to WWE, but recent comments suggest a shift in perspective.
“I don’t think you ever say never, especially with the WWE,” McAfee reiterated, leaving a small window open for potential future involvement, but emphasizing his current feeling that his time with the organization has concluded. He feels the company is thriving without him, a sentiment he shared during his Instagram Live session, as detailed by Sports Illustrated and Sporting News.
As McAfee focuses on his expanding career in sports analysis, acting, and family life, he appears content with the direction his path has taken, even if it means stepping away from the squared circle for good.
What comes next for McAfee remains to be seen, but his continued success in multiple ventures suggests a bright future beyond the world of professional wrestling. Share your thoughts on McAfee’s decision in the comments below.