2027 NFL Draft Set for Washington DC on April 29 to May 1
2027 NFL Draft Headed to the National Mall
The NFL has officially set dates for the 2027 draft: Thursday, April 29 through Saturday, May 1, in Washington DC. Adam Schefter reported the details on June 25, 2026.
The draft theater will be anchored on the National Mall in front of the Capitol, with the NFL Draft Experience spanning Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets. The event is presented by Bud Light and hosted in partnership with the Washington Commanders and Events DC.
Round-by-Round Schedule
Based on the standard format used in recent years:
- Thursday, April 29: Round 1
- Friday, April 30: Rounds 2-3
- Saturday, May 1: Rounds 4-7
Some Context Worth Knowing
Washington last hosted the draft way back in 1941 at the Willard Hotel. This will be the first time the city hosts under the modern traveling format.
This is also the first draft with dates extending into May since 2021, which was held on the exact same calendar dates.
The 2026 draft in Pittsburgh drew over 805,000 fans across three days, setting an all-time attendance record. For 2027, officials are projecting more than 1 million attendees given the national significance of the location.
One other note: the 2028 draft is already slated for Minneapolis.
Fantasy Football Angle
There are no direct player-level fantasy implications here, but dynasty and rookie draft managers should pencil in late April 2027. The three-day format is standard, so rookie pick values and draft timing expectations remain unchanged. Round 1 capital will still be the most critical asset on Day 1.