Pittsburgh to Host 2026 NFL Draft

Pittsburgh will host the 2026 NFL Draft, the National Football League announced during its spring meetings in Nashville, continuing a recent trend of having Northeastern destinations host the multi-day event.

The 2026 draft marks a full circle moment for the city and the Steelers, as the beginnings of what would become the first draft took place in 1936 at the Player Selections Meeting at the Fort Pitt Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh.

“Being awarded the 2026 NFL Draft is a testament to Pittsburgh’s rich football legacy and a renowned recognition of our city’s vibrant culture and welcoming spirit,” said Jerad Bachar, president and chief executive officer of VisitPittsburgh. “Momentum for Pittsburgh as the 2026 host city is only just beginning,and we look forward to working alongside our regional partners to plan and execute a world-class event that rolls out the black and gold carpet for football fans from across the country and around the world.”

The NFL Draft has become one of the most anticipated sports events of the year with the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit bringings in an estimated 775,000 fans in person. The 2025 NFL Draft will take place in Green Bay on April 24–26, 2025. Pittsburgh will become the second AFC Central team to host the draft after Cleveland did so in 2021

“The NFL Draft is one of the biggest, most-anticipated sporting events of the year and we’re thrilled to partner with the Pittsburgh Steelers and VisitPittsburgh for our 2026 event,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We have a unique opportunity to spotlight this wonderful community on a global stage, benefiting Pittsburgh’s economy and entertaining football fans from all markets. We know this pride of Pennsylvania will shine bright in 2026.

Throughout the three-day event, Pittsburgh will host a slate of activities including community events and the NFL Draft Experience fan festival. Draft Experience will be free for fans, inviting them to participate in immersive exhibits and games, take photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy and more.

“We are excited that the city of Pittsburgh has been selected to host the 2026 NFL Draft,” said Art Rooney II, Pittsburgh Steelers president. “This will be an amazing event that will highlight everything the region has to offer on a national and international level. I truly appreciate the work that has been done by VisitPittsburgh, the NFL, local and state officials, and internally within our organization to accomplish our goal of being selected to host the NFL Draft. We look forward to football fans from all across the country coming to enjoy our city’s culture while also showcasing our rich football history and tradition in the region.”

While planning is in development, draft festivities are expected to incorporate elements of the city of Pittsburgh including Point State Park as well as Acrisure Stadium, home of the Steelers.

“I have been proud to make the case for Pittsburgh to host the NFL Draft, from my direct conversations with NFL leadership at last year’s Super Bowl, to our administration’s consistent work alongside the Steelers and our local partners over the past year to showcase Pittsburgh’s great strengths,” said Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.

NFL Draft Location History