2026 NFL Draft Dates Set as Pittsburgh Continues Preparation

The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh will be held from April 23–25, the league and VisitPittsburgh have announced.

The main portion of the event is expected to incorporate Pittsburgh’s North Shore and Point State Park, as well as Acrisure Stadium. Throughout the three-day event, Pittsburgh will host a variety of draft activities, including the NFL Draft Experience fan festival. The event includes exhibits and games, autograph sessions and photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

“This is a monumental step forward in bringing the 2026 NFL Draft to life right here in the City of Champions,” said Jerad Bachar, president and chief executive officer of VisitPittsburgh. “With just 15 months to go, we look forward to continuing our strong partnership with the NFL and officials at the state, county, city and Pittsburgh Steelers to work collaboratively across the community to produce one of the best events Pittsburgh has ever hosted and one of the most memorable NFL Drafts the world has ever watched.”

The 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit was attended by over 775,000 fans, was seen by more than 50 million viewers worldwide and generated an estimated $213 million in economic impact for the city. The 2025 NFL Draft will take place in Green Bay.

“As we move closer to the 2026 NFL Draft, we’re working closely with VisitPittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Steelers and all our partners on the ground to ensure local and visiting fans will enjoy an unforgettable event,” said Peter O’Reilly, NFL executive vice president of club business, league events and international. “We’re excited to spotlight the city throughout our Draft festivities and show the world the passion and vibrancy of the Pittsburgh community.”

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 Fort Pitt Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh will become the second AFC Central team to host the draft after Cleveland did so in 2021.

“With a new Pittsburgh International Airport, Allegheny County will be ready to welcome NFL legends, prospects, their families and fans,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato. “As visitors travel to Pittsburgh and viewers tune in from around the world, we’ll make sure the 2026 NFL Draft puts all the great assets of the Pittsburgh region on full display.”