In 2026, the NFL Draft may have to try to get through a Steel Curtain before beginning.
That's because none other than Pittsburgh will serve as the host city, for a second time actually, for the 2026 NFL Draft. That's right — the city that gave the world the multiple champs of the 1970s, the Steel Curtain defense and Big Ben Roethlisberger will take center stage.
On the field, it's been a while since the Steelers were Super Bowl contenders. But their fans continue to behave as if they are every year. In other words, the 2026 NFL Draft is sure to be little more than a sea of black and gold and Terrible Towels.
The league made the announcement on Wednesday.
"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," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a press release. "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."
The 2026 NFL Draft is headed to Pittsburgh! 🏈 pic.twitter.com/xnYduDeGXb
— NFL (@NFL) May 22, 2024
Per NBC Sports:
"The draft was held in New York City for 50 straight years from 1965 to 2014 before it was finally moved to Chicago for two years. But since 2017, the event has rotated around to a different location each year. Philadelphia was first up, followed by first-time hosts Dallas (2018), Nashville (2019), Cleveland (2021), Las Vegas (2022), Kansas City (2023) and Detroit (2024).
"Pittsburgh will be just the fourth city to host multiple drafts, joining New York (57 drafts), Philadelphia (12) and Chicago (10)."
Green Bay will host the NFL Draft next year. Pittsburgh last hosted the draft in 1948.
