Sophia Michaels
Pat McAfee’s journey exemplifies a classic American success story. Starting out as a young soccer player, he discovered his kicking talent, leading him to a career in the NFL with the Indianapolis Colts from 2009 until his retirement in 2017. McAfee describes himself as a “blue collar American who enjoys life and just happens to excel at punting footballs,” as noted in an ESPN interview.
However, football was just the beginning. After hanging up his helmet, McAfee found immense success with a podcast that surpassed his earnings from sports. He also has deep ties to WWE, recently announcing his return to “WWE Raw” on Netflix amidst some controversy, including backlash from comments he made regarding Caitlin Clark.
Wondering how McAfee transitioned from the field to the airwaves? Join us as we explore the remarkable ascent of Pat McAfee.
From a Poker Game to Football Glory
Pat McAfee’s journey took a pivotal turn when he was in high school and faced financial constraints that threatened his chance at a kicking competition in Miami. With no way to fund his trip, he took a gamble on a poker game at a local restaurant, borrowing $100 from a friend.
To his surprise, McAfee turned that hundred into $1,400, allowing him to travel to the competition. In Miami, he showcased his formidable skills, making nine consecutive field goals, which earned him a scholarship to West Virginia University, paving the path to the NFL.
Drafted by the Colts
While at West Virginia University from 2005 to 2008, McAfee excelled as both placekicker and punter, converting 58 of 79 field goal attempts.
His professional football career commenced with the 2009 NFL draft, where he was selected in the seventh round by the Indianapolis Colts. Excited about his new opportunity, he remarked, “It’s a perfect situation for me, and I’m learning a lot,” shortly after joining the team. McAfee played in the Super Bowl that year, experiencing a tough loss against the New Orleans Saints.
Marking his tenure with the Colts, in 2016 he earned a Guinness World Record for a flawless 40-yard field goal while blindfolded, solidifying his status as a record-setting punter.
A Pivotal Incident: Drunken Swim and Arrest
Pat McAfee’s first year with the Indianapolis Colts took a shocking turn when he found himself at the center of a major scandal. In October 2010, after a night of excessive drinking, he was arrested for public intoxication when a woman dialed 911, claiming the NFL player was attempting to enter her vehicle. The police report indicated that McAfee had jumped into Indianapolis’ Central Canal while severely intoxicated. When questioned about his alcohol consumption, he replied candidly, “A lot, because I’m drunk.”
Following his overnight stay in jail, McAfee attempted to contact his father, who promptly hung up on him. The Colts responded with a fine and suspension for the player. Reflecting on that episode in a 2016 interview, McAfee admitted he wished to retreat from the world, feeling deep humiliation.
However, McAfee later viewed this incident as a crucial turning point. He recognized it as a much-needed awakening. Without that humiliating experience, McAfee believed his career would have suffered significantly. “If it wasn’t for that evening, I certainly wouldn’t be in the NFL right now,” he stated, acknowledging that he couldn’t have maintained his performance if he had continued his reckless lifestyle.
