The 2026 NFL Draft arrives in Pittsburgh this Thursday, marking the unofficial start of the new NFL season. All 32 teams will participate in the seven-round event, aiming to improve their teams with promising new players.

Draft Kickoff in Pittsburgh

The highly anticipated 2026 NFL Draft will begin Thursday evening in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This annual event is a key part of the NFL, generating excitement for teams and fans alike as they look to build for the future.

The draft represents a fresh start and a crucial opportunity for franchises to acquire young talent. The atmosphere in Pittsburgh is building as the city prepares to welcome fans over the three-day event.

A Historic Return

This year’s draft is particularly significant as it returns to Pittsburgh for the first time since 1948. This honors the city’s rich football history and the legacy of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Opening Ceremony and Schedule

Festivities will begin around 8 p.m. EDT on Thursday with a performance of the national anthem by Pittsburgh native KELS. The James Weldon Johnson Foundation's National Hymn Choir and The Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh will perform ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing.’

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will deliver introductory remarks and announce the first-round selections. Current and former NFL stars will announce picks in Rounds 2 and 3.

Draft Timing and Rounds

  • Round 1: 8 minutes per pick
  • Round 2: 7 minutes per pick
  • Rounds 3-6: 5 minutes per pick
  • Round 7: 4 minutes per pick

    • A total of 257 players will be selected over the seven rounds. The final player selected will be known as ‘Mr. Irrelevant.’

    Coverage and Fan Events

    The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from Thursday, April 23rd, to Saturday, April 25th. Round 1 begins Thursday at 8 p.m. EDT, followed by Rounds 2 and 3 on Friday at 7 p.m. EDT, and Rounds 4-7 on Saturday at 12 p.m. EDT.

    Fans can watch on ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and the NFL Network. Streaming options include the ABC App, ESPN app, NFL+, and Hulu+ Live TV, as well as YouTube TV and Fubo TV.

    The draft will be centered at Acrisure Stadium, home of the Steelers, with a fan festival at Point State Park. The NFL anticipates a large turnout, potentially exceeding the 600,000 fans who attended the 2025 draft in Green Bay.