Pat McAfee's Hilarious Near Return to the NFL Amid COVID-19
Pat McAfee, a name synonymous with both punting prowess and vibrant personality, nearly added an unexpected chapter to his football career during the COVID-19 pandemic. The former West Virginia Mountaineers star, who retired from the NFL in 2017 after eight seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, was approached by Bruce Arians, the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, about a potential return to the league.
Arians, preparing for the possibility of losing players to health protocols, sought out McAfee as a contingency plan. In a candid moment shared on the "Not Just Football" podcast, Arians recounted how he reached out to McAfee, asking, "Can you kick?" to which McAfee responded affirmatively. The idea was not for McAfee to abandon his successful broadcasting career or compete for a starting position; rather, it was to have an experienced kicker on standby in case the regular option was sidelined due to COVID-19 protocols.
Arians humorously recalled, "I’m going to sign you as my COVID kicker. If our guy gets COVID, we will fly you in for the game." This arrangement seemed plausible until McAfee remembered the implications of returning to the NFL, particularly the requirement to pass a drug test. His immediate response was a classic McAfee quip: "Uh-oh, do I have to pass a drug test?" When Arians confirmed that he would, McAfee quickly opted out of the opportunity, saying, "I’m out."
This exchange not only highlights McAfee's comedic timing but also sheds light on the unique challenges players face when considering a return to the league, especially under extraordinary circumstances like a pandemic. For fans of the Mountaineers and the NFL alike, this story serves as a reminder of McAfee's larger-than-life personality and his enduring connection to the game.
The timing of this revelation adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. The Buccaneers went on to win Super Bowl LV, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 31-9, with Tom Brady at the helm. While it’s uncertain whether McAfee would have made the active roster, the prospect of him joining a championship-winning team is tantalizing.
No Points for Excuses
McAfee's career has been marked by success both on and off the field. He earned two Pro Bowl selections during his time with the Colts and has since become a prominent figure in sports media. His ability to blend humor with sports analysis has made him a beloved personality among fans.
Ultimately, this near-return to the NFL serves as a humorous anecdote that encapsulates McAfee's character. The quick pivot from considering a comeback to dismissing it due to drug testing is a fitting conclusion for a player known for his charisma and candidness. It’s a story that resonates with fans, reminding them of the unpredictable nature of sports and the personalities that inhabit it.
