NFL Draft to feature just 16 players in Pittsburgh

Reduced in-person attendance due to ongoing pandemic protocols

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:00am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented images of football players, team logos, and draft-related symbols, conceptually representing the altered format of the 2026 NFL Draft.The 2026 NFL Draft will feature a radically reduced in-person presence, with only 16 players attending the event in Pittsburgh.Today in Pittsburgh

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but with a significantly reduced in-person presence. Only 16 players will be in attendance, a stark contrast to previous years when dozens of top prospects would gather to hear their names called by Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Why it matters

The scaled-back NFL Draft attendance is a reflection of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the league's efforts to prioritize health and safety protocols. This format shift will alter the traditional draft experience for both players and fans.

The details

Typically, the NFL Draft features a large green room where top prospects await their selection, surrounded by family, friends, and media. However, due to pandemic precautions, the league has decided to limit the in-person attendance to just 16 players this year. The rest of the draft selections will be announced without the players present.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place on Thursday, April 23.
  • The league announced the reduced in-person attendance plans in early April 2026.

The players

Roger Goodell

The Commissioner of the National Football League, who will be responsible for announcing the draft selections.

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What they’re saying

“We know this draft will look and feel different, but the health and safety of everyone involved is our top priority.”

— Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner

What’s next

The NFL will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and may adjust the draft format further if necessary as the event approaches.

The takeaway

The 2026 NFL Draft's reduced in-person attendance is a testament to the league's commitment to public health, but it also signals a shift in the traditional draft experience that fans have come to expect over the years.