ACC Network Founding Host Mark Packer Retires From ESPN

Mark Packer, a founding host of ESPN's ACC Network since its 2019 launch, has announced his retirement after a distinguished three-decade career in sports broadcasting. Known as "The Packman," Packer co-hosted the popular morning show "Packer and Durham" before transitioning to the afternoon program "ACC PM" alongside Taylor Tannebaum, broadcasting from his South Charlotte home studio. His career includes a successful run hosting "PrimeTime with the Packman" on WFNZ-AM from 1997 to 2010, recognized as one of the most listened-to sports radio shows in the Southeast, as well as hosting several shows on SiriusXM. Packer's background includes managing radio and television networks at Clemson and Maryland, consulting for LSU, and founding a sports marketing company in Charlotte. He cited personal and professional challenges over the past three years as factors in his decision and expressed excitement about pursuing travel, writing, and teaching in retirement. As the son of legendary sportscaster Billy Packer, Mark Packer's departure marks the end of an era for the ACC Network's afternoon lineup.