The NFL draft is heading to the capital. President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the 2027 NFL draft would be held in Washington, D.C., on the National Mall. From 1965 to 2014, the draft took place in New York City, but it has since rotated to different host cities.
More than 600,000 people attended the most recent three-day event in Green Bay, Wisconsin, last month. The 2026 edition is slated to be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but the 2027 announcement has caused quite the stir among fans.
National Mall Becomes a Warzone of Opinion Over NFL’s Bold Draft Move
President Trump announced the Oval Office, flanked by D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, and Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris, among other officials.
“The draft is a celebration of one of our country’s most cherished cultural institutions, and the annual highlights for football fans everywhere,” Trump said. “Everyone in the world is going to be watching.”
The 2027 NFL Draft is now officially headed to Washington, D.C. It will be held on the National Mall, where the Washington Monument stands. pic.twitter.com/L1xmwV1Z41
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 5, 2025
Not every fan agrees with the decision to hold the draft on the National Mall, and some took to social media to share their thoughts.
As much as we have disgruntled fans, we also have fans who are very excited as the prospect of Washington hosting the draft.
Throughout the three-day event, D.C. will host a slate of Draft activities, including a variety of community events, the Draft Concert Series, and the NFL Draft Experience.
“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 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.
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“It will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors, millions of viewers worldwide, and generate jobs, tax revenue, and meaningful economic impact across the city.
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