Pat McAfee weighed in on Jason Kelce’s surprising Masters role, turning the conversation into a candid story about his own repeated rejection from Augusta National.
Kelce is set to join ESPN’s coverage of the Masters Par 3 Contest as an on-course reporter, a move that has drawn mixed reactions online.
While some questioned the decision, McAfee offered a different perspective. Instead of criticism, he brought humor and honesty. He used his own experience to make the point.
Pat McAfee shares blunt reaction to Jason Kelce’s Masters role
Speaking on a recent episode of The Pat McAfee Show, McAfee addressed the backlash.
“The internet was rude about [Kelce’s role]. Obviously, the internet goes on to say, ‘We don’t need Jason Kelce at the Masters.’ And that’s probably a valid point, if I had to guess.
“I’m only saying that strictly because we have attempted to be a part of the Wednesday coverage of the Masters at the par-3 thing for three consecutive years now,” McAfee said.
He added: “For the people that are mad about Jason Kelce being a part of the Masters, I have a good piece of news for you: They’ve told us to go to hell.”
McAfee revealed that his show had repeatedly tried to be part of the same Par 3 coverage, only to be turned away each time.
That context reframed the criticism, showing just how selective the Masters remains when it comes to media involvement, and it added a layer of perspective to Kelce’s opportunity.
Pat McAfee explains why Jason Kelce fits the Masters coverage
Despite the backlash, McAfee made it clear he believes Kelce is a strong addition.
“So I think you should be happy about that, that they do try to preserve it as a whole. They have a certain thing that they are looking for.
“I think Jason Kelce, who’s a dog, is funny, is relatable, and is a very good athlete, and is probably friends with a lot of these guys who will be golfing there. I think he will provide a bonus for that Par 3 coverage,” McAfee continued.
He concluded, stating: “But to the people that are upset who are saying that The Masters are the only thing you’ve got left, they’ve turned us down very loudly numerous times, which I think should be good news for the state of their golf and the way that they view it all.”
McAfee’s point was clear. The Masters remains highly selective, and that exclusivity is part of its identity. At the same time, he believes Kelce brings the personality and relatability that could enhance the broadcast.
The combination of tradition and fresh perspective is what makes the situation interesting, and for McAfee, the bigger story might be who didn’t get in.
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