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Stephen A. Smith Denies Rift with Pat McAfee

3/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Stephen A. Smith (ESPN commentator) denies rumors of a rift with Pat McAfee (media colleague) after a 2024 argument.
In an interview with Graham Bensinger, he says the dispute arose from a misunderstanding about a project.
They have publicly praised each other, with Smith noting McAfee helped raise ESPN salary standards.
Smith says there is no animosity and that McAfee remains welcome on First Take.

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Story summary

Stephen A. Smith (ESPN commentator) denies rumors of a rift with Pat McAfee (media colleague) after a 2024 argument.
In an interview with Graham Bensinger, he says the dispute arose from a misunderstanding about a project.
They have publicly praised each other, with Smith noting McAfee helped raise ESPN salary standards.
Smith says there is no animosity and that McAfee remains welcome on First Take.