BREAKING: Furious Pat McAfee tells two Colts stars to leave Indianapolis this offseason after missing playoffs
Pat McAfee’s candid comments about the Indianapolis Colts’ current roster reflect the growing frustration surrounding the team’s underperformance in 2024. As a long-time Colts player and current ESPN host, McAfee has seen his fair share of highs and lows in Indianapolis. His desire for a full-scale roster overhaul, including parting ways with star players like Jonathan Taylor and Anthony Richardson, suggests a deep sense of dissatisfaction with the current state of the team.
McAfee’s criticism of Taylor, despite the running back’s solid performance in 2024, reflects the reality that his massive salary no longer seems justifiable in McAfee’s eyes, especially after a tumultuous contract dispute. Taylor’s near $12 million base salary for a position that’s being devalued in the league, combined with his lack of impact compared to his earlier seasons, likely makes him expendable to McAfee.
Richardson’s struggles, compounded by injury, have drawn similar disdain. The 22-year-old quarterback, drafted to be the future of the franchise, has shown flashes of potential but hasn’t lived up to expectations. His inconsistency and poor decision-making, such as his 11 touchdowns to 13 interceptions, have made McAfee, along with some Colts veterans, question his future. The uncertainty and confusion surrounding Richardson’s role—going from starter to demotion and back—has only further complicated the team’s situation. A veteran Colts player even described the situation as having “affected the team,” indicating the lack of clarity and leadership on the field.
DeForest Buckner’s comments to Richardson, highlighting that he signed an extension with the belief in Richardson’s growth, reveal the internal tension within the organization. Buckner’s frustration with Richardson’s inability to meet expectations is understandable, as the defense’s efforts are being undermined by the lack of a stable and productive offense.
In McAfee’s mind, it’s clear that a complete reset is needed for the Colts to become a competitive team again. His comments may be polarizing to some fans who still believe in Richardson’s potential, but they reflect the urgency and impatience felt by many in the Colts’ fanbase. With Richardson’s future now uncertain, the team may have to make some tough decisions in the offseason to reshape the roster and potentially find a more reliable leader at quarterback.