Pat McAfee has the full support of his ESPN colleague Stephen A. Smith amid recent criticism of his show.
McAfee has taken heat from his Tuesday talks with New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The QB — a noted Covid-19 vaccine skeptic — has gone on The Pat McAfee Show and teased Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce for appearing in vaccine ads. After Kelce sent back a playful shot of his own, Rodgers doubled down and challenged him to a vaccine debate.
The segment didn’t go over well online, with some criticizing the network for promoting it as “the next great American debate.” Others used it as an example to argue ESPN made a mistake acquiring McAfee.
It didn’t help that days later, it was revealed that McAfee’s show has paid Rodgers “millions” for his weekly appearances.
On Tuesday, McAfee appeared on First Take before his own show was set to air. When the discussion shifted to Rodgers, Smith decided to take a moment to express his support.
“I would like you to play this sound bite when you and Aaron Rodgers are on the air together today,” Smith said. “I want you to tell the public out there — who’s been critical and questioning of y’all’s relationship — to kiss your ass. They wish they had the relationship. All of these people, tell them to kiss your ass twice. That’s right. Quote Stephen A. It’s ridiculous.
“Anybody in this business knows that all of us — any time — can have a relationship with an elite player who’s unapologetic about the commentary he provides. All of us would want those relationships. Props to you for having it, and to hell with all of those naysayers. I’m saying that. Pat McAfee’s not saying it; I’m saying it. So make sure you quote me on that.”
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