FBI Advises Pat McAfee on Safety Measures After Charlie Kirk’s Assassination

2 hours ago 0

The FBI recommended ESPN commentator Pat McAfee start wearing a bulletproof vest following the assassination of Charlie Kirk last year. This advice came from a source knowledgeable about the circumstances, as reported by OutKick.

McAfee mentioned Kirk earlier in the week while explaining his discomfort about filming “College GameDay” at Utah Valley University. During his show, McAfee questioned, “And then I thought to myself, has anything really scary happened at a college gathering in the state of Utah recently? Like, do we think we should be amplifying reasons for why people hate my guts as a university? I don’t know.” These thoughts reflect his concerns regarding safety on college campuses.

“HOW CHARLIE KIRK’S ASSASSINATION CHANGED THE WAY CONSERVATIVES APPROACH HOSTILE OPPONENTS”

The advice from the FBI first came to light through Front Office Sports. McAfee has been a regular presence on “College GameDay,” appearing before a game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Georgia Bulldogs at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on September 13, 2025.

ESPN, acknowledging the security risks, stated, “We support Pat and recognize the very real and valid concerns he has around safety and security.” Despite these precautions, it’s unclear why McAfee specifically felt uneasy on the Utah campus, though a viral video mocking him as “corny” for tearing off his shirt during “College GameDay” may have played a role.

Kirk’s assassination in 2025 has heightened safety concerns among controversial media figures. McAfee, regarded as a leading figure in sports media, often faces false accusations and hysteria from online users, especially following his interview with President Trump on ESPN earlier this year.

Each week, McAfee graces the “College GameDay” stage, broadcasting live from various college campuses. On September 6, 2025, he appeared ahead of the University of Oklahoma vs. Michigan college football game in Norman, Oklahoma.

As of now, McAfee has not replied to inquiries from OutKick regarding the FBI’s advice. Updates will be provided if he issues a statement. Bobby Burack reports for OutKick.