Pittsburgh to host 2026 NFL Draft, league announces

PITTSBURGH (WJAC) — The NFL announced Wednesday that the city of Pittsburgh has been selected to host the 2026 NFL Draft.

"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."

Last year, the city and the Pittsburgh Steelers were one of several teams that expressed interest with hosting a future league draft.

The team and city says their plan would be to hold the draft in the North Shore area, near Stage AE & the Steelers' Acrisure Stadium.

Officials say they would also work to incorporate the "iconic Point State Park" into the draft site.

"Allegheny County is delighted to be the home of the 2026 NFL Draft. From greeting visitors at the updated Pittsburgh International Airport to showing off all of our fabulous cultural gems, we are a great place for sports fans from across the country to visit. Thank you to the host committee who helped put together this bid, we are looking forward to working with all of our partners to put on a welcoming and memorable NFL Draft," said County Executive Sara Innamorato.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also petitioned for Pittsburgh to host the NFL Draft and expressed his support for the decision.

"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."

The three-day NFL Draft event will feature various activities for fans, including concerts and "immersive games and exhibits."

"We are excited that the City of Pittsburgh has been selected to host the 2026 NFL Draft," said Art Rooney II, Pittsburgh Steelers President. "This will be an amazing event that will highlight everything the region has to offer on a national and international level. I truly appreciate the work that has been done by VisitPITTSBURGH, the NFL, local and state officials, and internally within our organization to accomplish our goal of being selected to host the NFL Draft. We look forward to football fans from all across the country coming to enjoy our city's culture while also showcasing our rich football history and tradition in the region."

ncG1vNJzZmivmpawtcKNnKamZ6OlvLPA0miqrZ2VobKzv46poK2so5fCs7PHZp%2Boq6Rif3F%2BlWaln6Rdmb%2BistNmnainpJeurbiMrKeoqqSo