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David Pollack Gets Real About His Departure from ESPN

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 11, 2025 12:37 PM ET

David Pollack has always been one to keep it honest, and he didn’t hold back when opening up about his sudden exit from ESPN.

The former Georgia Bulldogs linebacker and longtime "College GameDay" analyst was part of a wave of layoffs in 2023 as ESPN restructured its on-air talent roster in an effort to cut costs. Despite his high profile and years of football insight, Pollack found himself unexpectedly on the outside looking in.

“I didn’t know it was coming,” Pollack admitted.

But instead of letting the news keep him down, Pollack pivoted. Since leaving ESPN, he has launched his own personal podcast, "Family Goals," stayed active in the college football scene with another podcast, "See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack," and has taken full advantage of the time at home.

Caught up with @davidpollack47 to discuss his ESPN exit and Pat McAfee's role on College GameDay.

"I didn’t know it was coming."

Through it all, he's been able to spend more time with his family as his wife, Lindsey, battles brain cancer.

Story: https://t.co/14JtTRfnkC pic.twitter.com/SxqcR83qif
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) July 11, 2025

That extra time with his family has been especially meaningful, as his wife, Lindsey, continues her battle with brain cancer. Pollack has spoken openly about how much that time has meant to him.

As for ESPN’s "College GameDay," things look a little different without him. Pat McAfee has become a regular on the show, bringing a high-energy, often polarizing presence. While some fans enjoy the added flash, others miss the straightforward football talk that Pollack delivered.

Pollack hasn’t thrown any shade, though. He has taken the high road, choosing gratitude over bitterness.

“I have had an amazing ride. This has been awesome. I would not trade this, I would not turn ... it in,” he has said in interviews. “I got to go travel the country, see things, give my family experiences that (they) never would have gotten.”

Now, Pollack is focused on what matters most: family, faith and finding new ways to stay connected to the game he loves. Even without the ESPN platform, he’s still very much part of the college football conversation, but just with a bit more perspective these days.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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