NFL Draft 2027 Dates Announced for Historic Event on Washington, D.C.'s National Mall

The dates for the 2027 NFL draft in Washington, D.C., are officially set.

The NFL announced on Thursday that next year's draft will be held from April 29 to May 1 at the famed National Mall in the nation's capital:

The 2026 NFL draft in Pittsburgh drew over 805,000 fans across the three-day event, setting a new attendance record. It's safe to say that the league is expecting a similar turnout for next year's showcase.

"The NFL Draft continues to grow as one of our biggest and most accessible events, and we are excited to welcome fans and prospects to Washington, D.C., in 2027," Peter O'Reilly, NFL executive vice president of club business, international and global events, said in a release. "Our nation's capital will provide an incredible, iconically American stage to host fans from around the world, as we celebrate the next generation of NFL stars."

In addition to the National Mall hosting the draft theater in front of the Capitol, the league will create an NFL Draft Experience fan festival spanning Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 3rd and 7th Streets. There will also be a variety of free community events and performances as part of the Draft Entertainment Series.

"We are proud to partner with the NFL, Events DC and the District to bring the 2027 NFL Draft to Washington, D.C.," Mark Clouse, president of the Washington Commanders, said in the release. "This is a historic moment for our organization, our fans, and the entire region. The Draft has become one of the premier events in sports and entertainment, and with the momentum around football in this area, from the rapid growth of youth flag football to our return to the RFK site, there is no better time to bring it to the nation's capital. Football is woven into the fabric of this city, and we look forward to creating a memorable experience for all fans and celebrating the next generation of NFL players as they realize their dreams."