Prediction: Josh Pate Poised to Become ESPN’s Next Pat McAfee in Sports Broadcasting

Josh Pate Poised to Become ESPN’s Next Pat McAfee

Josh Pate joined ESPN before the college football season as a contributor. So far, his appearances have been mostly remote and weekly on "Get Up" with Mike Greenberg. However, industry insiders predict a significant expansion of his role at ESPN by next season.

ESPN’s leadership under Burke Magnus has shifted focus toward personalities who connect broadly with sports fans. This strategy includes investing in talents like Pat McAfee and Peter Schrager while moving away from voices such as Sarah Spain and Bomani Jones. The network’s approach favors authentic, fan-driven content over social commentary and niche audiences.

Josh Pate’s background closely mirrors that of Pat McAfee. Pate built "Josh Pate’s College Football Show" into the top college football program on the internet independently. ESPN has demonstrated willingness to let McAfee maintain ownership and creative control through licensing deals—a model that could apply to Pate as well.

McAfee added a simulcast on ESPN’s main channel and reportedly earns $17 million annually without losing independence. Similarly, ESPN is expected to keep Pate’s existing platforms while incorporating his show into their direct-to-consumer app and the SEC Network. Pate could also make more appearances across ESPN’s programs.

Recently, Pate appeared on “First Take” alongside Stephen A. Smith. Smith seemed impressed by his performance, fueling speculation of Pate’s growing role. His internet success comes amid a surge in national college football interest, following major stories like coach Lane Kiffin’s move and controversial rankings.

Despite ESPN’s heavy college football investment, their daily contributors remain limited beyond Paul Finebaum. Finebaum recently hinted at possibly leaving to pursue a Senate run, making ESPN’s need for a successor more urgent.

Given these dynamics, expanding the partnership with Pate appears logical. His growing profile and authentic connection to college football audiences position him as a natural heir to McAfee’s model at ESPN. This prediction for 2026 aligns well with current network trends and fan interests.