“This will be one of the biggest and most-anticipated professional sporting events our city has hosted,” says Kathy Nelson, president and chief executive officer of the Kansas City Sports Commission and Visit KC. “Not only will fans from around the country be traveling to experience the NFL Draft and NFL Draft Experience, but millions of viewers will see Kansas City in the national spotlight on NFL Network, ESPN and other major networks.”
This marks the first time Kansas City will have the opportunity to host the draft. It was previously held in Nashville in 2019, remotely in 2020 and in Cleveland in 2021. The 2022 draft is scheduled for April 28–30 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“Kansas City’s internationally recognized passion for sports makes it an ideal host for the NFL Draft,” said Peter O’Reilly, NFL executive vice president of club business and league events. “We know that our partners, including the Kansas City Chiefs, City of Kansas City, Kansas City Sports Commission and Visit KC, will create a one-of-a-kind experience for our fans as we welcome the next generation of NFL players.”
The 2023 NFL Draft is expected to take place around Union Station and the National World War I Museum and Memorial. As part of the event, NFL Draft Experience – an interactive football theme park – will allow fans to test their football skills, enjoy interactive exhibits and autograph sessions and take pictures with the Vince Lombardi Trophy.