2026 NFL Draft awarded to Pittsburgh, Steelers owner Art Rooney reveals

On Wednesday at the Spring League Meeting, Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney and NFL Executive Vice President of Club Business and League Events Peter O’Reilly announced that the league has awarded the 2026 NFL Draft to the city of Pittsburgh.

Word broke back in November that Pittsburgh wanted to play host to the three-day NFL party that could generate millions of dollars for the local economy. That dream is now reality. The city will host in 2026 after Detroit hosted this year. Green Bay is the host for 2025.

Pittsburgh wins bid for 2026 Draft

The league released statements from commissioner Roger Goodell, as well as Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro on Wednesday following the announcement.

“The NFL Draft is one of the biggest, most-anticipated sporting events of the year, and we’re thrilled to partner with the Pittsburgh Steelers and VisitPITTSBURGH for our 2026 event,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We have a unique opportunity to spotlight this wonderful community on a global stage, benefiting Pittsburgh’s economy and entertaining football fans from all markets. We know this pride of Pennsylvania will shine bright in 2026.”

“As Governor of Pennsylvania, I have been proud to make the case for Pittsburgh to host the NFL Draft, from my direct conversations with NFL leadership at last year’s Super Bowl, to our administration’s consistent work alongside the Steelers and our local partners over the past year to showcase Pittsburgh’s great strengths,” said Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.

“Today, Pittsburgh has established itself as one of the most dynamic cities in the country – and as the birthplace of professional football, it is the best choice to host the Draft. With all eyes on Pennsylvania during the nation’s 250th birthday, the Commonwealth is excited and ready to work together to host this historic Draft and show the country what Pennsylvania is all about.”

Up until a decade ago, the NFL kept its annual draft in New York, where the league has its offices. The NFL began televising the draft in 1980. And now it’s a tradition to help bridge the long gap between now and when preseason training camps start in July. The league decided to allow other host cities to be part of the draft action starting in 2015.

Jerad Bachar, president and CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH, told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette last fall that the Steelers hosting the draft could generate an economic impact of up to $160 million. The Steelers will likely stage the draft near the Steelers’ home, Acrisure Stadium.