NFL fans are praying for Pat McAfee following his heartbreaking family announcement

Pat McAfee recently lost his father-in-law

McAfee has become one of ESPN’s strongest personalitiesLAPRESSE

Pat McAfee, renowned sports commentator and former NFL punter, shared heartbreaking news on Tuesday about the sudden passing of his father-in-law, Bob. The death occurred on Monday, leaving McAfee‘s family in shock.

McAfee, a frequent WWE personality, notably missed the “Raw” event in Indianapolis on Monday evening. This absence coincided with a significant announcement that WWE and the city had secured a long-term deal to host major events, including the 2025 Royal Rumble, SummerSlam, and WrestleMania, at Lucas Oil Stadium.

During his ESPN and YouTube show, McAfee provided a detailed account of the events leading up to his father-in-law’s passing.

“Yesterday was a day that will obviously be remembered forever in our family because my father-in-law passed away unexpectedly after the show ended yesterday in a hospital here in Indianapolis, IN,” McAfee said.

He explained that Bob had been battling an infection and was initially expected to be discharged from the hospital. “By Sunday he had figured it out and he was going to be OK, so we were all in high hopes with incredible optimism,” McAfee recounted. However, the situation took a drastic turn on Monday, just as McAfee’s show was concluding.

“My wife calls me and said I have to get to the hospital because there’d been an emergency,” he said. McAfee hurried to the hospital to find his wife, Samantha, her mother, and other family members facing the devastating situation. Bob had fought valiantly but ultimately succumbed.

“Whenever something blindsides an entire family like that, obviously it can be wildly devastating,” McAfee shared. He emphasized the deep bond between his wife and her father, noting that Samantha has a bear tattooed in honor of Bob, whom she affectionately called “Papa Bear.”

McAfee took the time to send a message to his friends

Reflecting on the emotional evening, McAfee stressed the importance of expressing love to family and friends. “It was a nice reminder – thankfully, my wife and her mom, the last things they said to her dad, Bob, who was a great man, was ‘I love you’,” he said.

In concluding his heartfelt message, McAfee expressed gratitude to his audience for their support during this tough time. “A lot of people tell us that our show helps them escape things, and that’s what it is for me today, and I can’t thank you all enough,” he said. “And [to] my wife, and her mom, I love you.”

This personal tragedy has underscored the fragility of life, serving as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment with loved ones.