The NFL today announced that the 2027 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light will take place in Washington, D.C., uniting fans from around the world to celebrate one of the most- anticipated events in sports.
Hosted in partnership with the Washington Commanders and the local organizing committee, Events DC, the 2027 NFL Draft will take place across the District's most iconic landmarks, including the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue, placing the capital at the center of America's most celebrated sport.
The announcement was made today in the Oval Office with President Donald J. Trump.
"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."
Over the course of 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 ultimate free fan festival that invites fans to participate in immersive exhibits, challenge their skills in interactive games, take photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy; enjoy the youth-focused Play 60 Zone; shop exclusive NFL merchandise; and score autographs from current players and Legends.
"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. "It will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors, millions of viewers around the world, and generate jobs, tax revenue, and meaningful economic impact across the city. The Draft is a powerful reminder of how sports bring people together -- and we're honored to play a role in that. Since we started this journey less than two years ago, we've seen an NFC Championship Game, an agreement to return to RFK, and now the NFL draft in Washington. Thank you to President Trump for your leadership, to Mayor Bowser for your partnership, and to Commissioner Roger Goodell for your support in bringing the Draft back to the nation's capital. We look forward to welcoming the football world to Washington in 2027. Today is a great day for the DMV, and I can't wait to see what the future brings."
"This is a historic occasion for Washington, DC, and we are absolutely honored to host the 2027 NFL Draft," said Events DC president and CEO Angie M. Gates. "The NFL Draft will provide football fans with an unforgettable experience, while showcasing all that makes Washington, DC a world-class destination and the Sports Capital. We look forward to working with our partners and community to deliver a world-class event that reflects the dynamic spirit of our city."
Since 2015, the NFL Draft has continued to grow as one of the most-watched events in sports, with over 3.5 million fans attending festivities in person. The 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit attracted a record-breaking 775,000 fans. Most recently, more than 600,000 fans attended the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, matching Nashville's record in 2019 for the second-highest attendance in Draft history.
