The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft will begin this Thursday night at 8 p.m. EST with coverage split between the NFL Network, ABC, and ESPN.
Certain sports media members have become synonymous with NFL Draft season.
For instance, you’re likely expecting to see some of Mel Kiper Jr. and his illustrious hair this weekend. Familiar faces like Adam Schefter and Matt Miller will probably grace the television screens of draft viewers, as well.
One notable personality will be conspicuous in his absence this year: Todd McShay.
The long-time draft analyst was revered during his lengthy ESPN career for his draft expertise as well as his ability to play foil to Kiper’s hysterics.
But ESPN let McShay go back in June of 2023. This means the 2024 draft will be the first in 15 years not to feature McShay’s commentary on the worldwide leader in sports.
Which brings us to the question posed in the headline …
What Happened To Todd McShay?
McShay was one of several acclaimed former ESPN employees who fell victim to last summer’s Walt Disney-mandated budget cuts.
The media mogul also cut ties with other prominent broadcasters like Jeff Van Gundy, Max Kellerman, Suzy Kolber, Jalen Rose, and Steve Young, per The New York Post.
It seems safe to presume that McShay and most, if not all, of his colleagues benefited from some sort of contract buyout. In fact, a recent post on X (formerly known as Twitter) from McShay strongly alludes to a contractual obligation preventing him from working this year’s draft in any official capacity.
Nonetheless, McShay was sure to thank his supporters and mention a few places where he can be found in the coming days.
Just want to take a minute to say thank you! The outpouring of support during draft season has been noticed and greatly appreciated.
As for next week’s draft, I’m sitting this one out on TV due to obvious contract limitations but it’s business as usual around here! You can…
— Todd McShay (@McShay13) April 19, 2024
McShay made an appearance on the ultra-popular Barstool Sports podcast “Pardon My Take” just a few days ago. He shared an amusing nugget in the process.
McShay told the hosts that Kiper still doesn’t own a cell phone. Unbelievably, Kiper instead has four separate landline phones installed in his home.
Mel Kiper Jr. still has no cellphone but has 4 different landlines in his house @PardonMyTake pic.twitter.com/hEBvmVja7L
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) April 22, 2024
Those who want to hear the noted draftnik’s thoughts on the results of this weekend’s player selection party should have that opportunity sometime next week when McShay appears on Ryen Russillo’s podcast.
Peruse McShay’s X page for just a few moments, and you can see he’s as passionate and well-informed on this year’s draft class as he’s been for each of the last (at least) 15.
KEEP READING: 2024 NFL Draft Big Board
McShay certainly seems to be enjoying his paid vacation. After all, who wouldn’t?
Nonetheless, one gets the sense that the 47-year-old McShay is itching to get back to doing what he knows best.
All the 2024 NFL Draft resources you need — the draft order, the top QBs, the Top 100 prospects, and the full 2024 Big Board — right at your fingertips at Pro Football Network!