Overview
- Smith told Graham Bensinger that McAfee initially believed Smith had done something he had not, and said clarity ended the issue and they are fine.
- Smith reiterated his view that McAfee's arrival at ESPN raised the salary ceiling and illuminated his own market value.
- Media reports in 2025 described a heated phone dispute over creative differences on a project Smith was producing.
- Speculation of a First Take ban was denied by both, while outlets note McAfee has not returned to the show since the reported dispute.
- Smith has publicly praised McAfee's work and credited ESPN leadership, including Bob Iger, Dana Walden, and Jimmy Pitaro, in facilitating his deal.