The city of Pittsburgh will host the 2026 NFL Draft. The league announced the news during the NFL Spring League Meeting in Nashville.
According to the announcement, the 2026 NFL Draft will incorporate elements of iconic Point State Park as well as Pittsburgh Steelers’ home turf, Acrisure Stadium.
“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,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement.
The NFL held its draft in New York City from 1965 to 2014 before deciding to shake things up and select different host cities moving forward. Chicago got the honor to host the draft in 2015 and 2016 before Philadelphia, Dallas, Nashville, Cleveland, Las Vegas, Kansas City, and Detroit received the nod. The 2025 NFL Draft will be held in Green Bay.
Steelers president Art Rooney II has been attempting to get the chance to host the NFL Draft, hoping to increase the exposure of the city of Pittsburgh and treat his fan base. Rooney doesn’t hide the fact that he also wants to bring the Super Bowl to Pittsburgh, and maybe the draft will be a stepping stone toward that.
“I 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,” said Rooney II in a statement. “This will be an amazing event that will highlight everything the region has to offer on a national and international level.”
