2027 NFL Draft Headed to Washington, D.C.

The 2027 NFL Draft will take place in Washington, D.C, with activations across the District’s landmarks, including the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue.

Hosted in partnership with the Washington Commanders and the local organizing committee, Events DC, the 2027 draft will be a three-day event that includes a variety of community events, the draft concert series and NFL Draft Experience.

“This is a historic occasion for Washington, D.C. and we are absolutely honored to host the 2027 NFL Draft,” said Angie Gates, Events DC president and chief executive officer. “The NFL Draft will provide football fans with an unforgettable experience, while showcasing all that makes Washington, D.C., a world-class destination and the sports capital. We look forward to working with our partners and community to deliver a world-class event that reflects the dynamic spirit of our city.”

The announcement was made in the Oval Office with President Donald J. Trump. It highlights a massive past week for the Commanders, who also announced plans for a 65,000-seat stadium at the RFK site.

“The NFL Draft has become a marquee event, uniting fans across the country and around the world,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We are excited to bring the 2027 Draft to Washington, D.C., a city rich in history and national pride. With the support of President Trump, the Commanders, Events DC and Mayor Bowser we’re looking forward to delivering an unforgettable experience as we celebrate the next generation of NFL stars.”

The NFL draft used to be a fixture at Radio City Music Hall in New York before it hit the road in 2015. Chicago hosted the draft in 2015 and 2016. Philadelphia had it in 2017, followed by Dallas and Nashville. Goodell announced the picks from his house in 2020 during the pandemic. It went to Cleveland in 2021 followed by Las Vegas, Kansas City and Detroit before Green Bay this year. Pittsburgh will host next year.

The 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit attracted a record-breaking 775,000 fans. Most recently, more than 600,000 fans attended the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, matching Nashville’s record in 2019 for the second-highest attendance in Draft history.

“The NFL Draft is one of the biggest moments in sports — and we’re incredibly proud to help bring it to Washington, D.C.,” said Josh Harris, Commanders managing partner. “It will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors, millions of viewers around the world, and generate jobs, tax revenue, and meaningful economic impact across the city. The Draft is a powerful reminder of how sports bring people together — and we’re honored to play a role in that.”