The 2026 NFL season might still be a while away, but activity off the field has reached a fever pitch as teams finalize their rosters for the upcoming campaign. Nothing signals the climax of the offseason quite like the NFL Draft. Taking place live from the historic city of Pittsburgh, the 2026 NFL Draft kicks off tonight and is an absolute peak of the football calendar that you cannot miss.
Bringing together the most elite collegiate athletes, the draft gives every franchise the chance to secure a future cornerstone. With three days of high-stakes decision-making starting this evening, it is the ultimate opportunity for teams to shift their trajectory for the 2026 season and beyond.
The 2026 NFL Draft will feature 257 selections across seven rounds. The event is centered around Acrisure Stadium and Point State Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offering a stunning backdrop where the Three Rivers meet.
Below, GOAL brings you the complete guide to the 2026 NFL Draft, including where to watch and the finalized schedule.
When is the 2026 NFL Draft?
The 2026 NFL Draft takes place over three days this weekend, beginning today, Thursday, April 23, with the highly anticipated opening round.
- Round 1: Thursday, April 23 at 8 p.m. ET (Tonight)
- Rounds 2-3: Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m. ET
- Rounds 4-7: Saturday, April 25 at 12 p.m. ET
Where does the 2026 NFL Draft take place?
The 2026 NFL Draft is being held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The "Draft Theater" and the NFL Draft Experience are situated in the lots surrounding Acrisure Stadium and extending into the scenic Point State Park.
Pittsburgh was selected to host the 91st edition of the event, marking a historic return to the state where the very first NFL draft was held (Philadelphia, 1936). Following massive turnouts in Detroit and Green Bay, the Steel City is expected to see record-breaking attendance from its legendary, "Terrible Towel"-waving fanbase.
Where can I watch the 2026 NFL Draft?
The 2026 NFL draft will be broadcast nationally on ABC, ESPN, and the NFL Network. Digital streaming is available via ESPN+ and the NFL's official apps. For those using an over-the-air antenna, ABC will provide free-to-air coverage for all three days.
For the most comprehensive viewing experience throughout the Draft and the entire 2026 NFL season, FuboTV remains the premier choice. Fubo offers ABC, CBS, ESPN, and NFL Network, ensuring you don't miss a single pick or the "One Shining Moment" for these new pros.
FuboTV plans typically start at $79.99/month. With no long-term contracts and a free trial for new users, it is the best way to catch the action from the Three Rivers this week.
FAQs
Who has the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Las Vegas Raiders officially hold the No. 1 overall pick tonight after finishing the 2025 season with the league's most difficult path and securing the top slot. They are followed by the New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans, and the New York Giants in the top five.
Who are the top prospects to watch?
The 2026 class is incredibly strong at the quarterback and edge positions. Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is widely projected as the potential first overall pick. Other elite names include defensive standouts like Arvell Reese (Ohio State) and David Bailey (Texas Tech). On the offensive side, fans are watching Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love, a versatile playmaker, and Ohio State's Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs, who lead a talented class.
Where will the 2027 NFL Draft be held?
The NFL has officially announced that the 2027 NFL Draft will be held in Washington, D.C. The event is set to take place on the National Mall, with the U.S. Capitol building serving as a historic backdrop for the next generation of NFL stars.