The Steelers
23 Apr 2026, 19:51 GMT+10
Teresa Varley
The NFL Draft will take place in Pittsburgh from April 23-25, with plenty of free activities for fans of all ages to enjoy throughout the three-day extravaganza hosted by the NFL, in partnership with VisitPITTSBURGH and the Steelers.
From the Draft Stage and Main Theater, North Shore, and Point State Park, there will be no shortage of fun activities, with plenty of it having Steelers flavor.
All activities are free through the NFL OnePass App,which fans can download here.
-->>Pittsburgh Visitors Guide
-->>All Draft Activities
Thursday, April 23
Ready to go:It's been almost two years since the NFL announced that Pittsburgh will host the 2026 NFL Draft.
And now, with the Draft here, the excitement in the city is at a fever pitch.
The Steelers, VisitPITTSBURGH and the NFL have collaborated to turn Pittsburgh into Draft Central for the entire NFL and the energy and enthusiasm is felt everywhere.
"You can feel it around town right now," said Dan Rooney, the Steelers Vice President for Business Development and Strategy. "Put on the news, talk to anyone around the city. The excitement around the 2026 NFL Draft is palpable and we could not be more excited to show off Pittsburgh, show off Western Pennsylvania."
The Draft kicks off on Thursday, April 23 at 8 p.m. and runs through Saturday, April 25.
In addition to the Draft football extravaganza, hosting it also brings plenty of family-friendly activities to Pittsburgh, which are all free to attend by downloading and registering on the NFL One Pass App. The events will take place on the North Shore, in and around Acrisure Stadium and at Point State Park, with something for everyone on tap.
"If you are walking over to Point State Park, you're going be able to take part in the Steelers Country fan zone, and you'll be able see our alumni taking part with fans, celebrating Steelers fandom," said Rooney. "As you walk over to the North Shore, across the Roberto Clemente Bridge, you're going to see entertainment, food and beverage options, everything Pittsburgh really has to offer.
"Once you enter the North Shore, where the (Draft) stage is, you can walk around, enjoy the sights and sounds. There will be live music, a chance to kick a field goal on the field at Acrisure. Run a 40-yard dash. Just the Draft Experience in general. There's something for all ages.
"It's a football festival, but it's also more than that. You'll be able to feel Pittsburgh's culture in every pocket of the footprint and outside of the footprint. We encourage football fans coming from outside of Pittsburgh to explore. Get into our communities because there really is so much to offer."
The NFL Draft will showcase Pittsburgh in a manner like it's never been showcased before, and that is something Rooney looks forward to.
"The Steelers are so excited that Pittsburgh is being showcased to the world to tell our story, the football history that sits here in Pittsburgh, the bright future we have for our region," said Rooney. "From our innovative spirit, to our arts and natural beauty, there's so much about Pittsburgh that makes it special. And that story will be on display for the world to see.
"It's a chance to tell our history but also tell the story of Pittsburgh's future."
Monday, April 20
Finishing touches:The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh is just three days away, and the finishing touches are being put on the NFL Draft Theater and Stage outside of Acrisure Stadium.
The stage will provide an iconic view of the City of Pittsburgh, as those who step onto it will see the beautiful skyline, while those watching in person and on television will see uniquely Pittsburgh graphics used on the stage, including the lineup of sister bridges.
"What it will look like in person if you're standing out there in the parking lots right outside Acrisure, or if you are one of the millions watching at home, it's going to be very Pittsburgh," said Steve Farago, director of event operations for the NFL and the individual who is overseeing the building project. "That's why we take our time in the early planning stages to really find the right location for the stage and the theater because we want to give people that are on site a great view into the theater and the stage.
"But on the other hand, that kind of reverse shot that we call it when the commissioner and the prospect come out on stage and they look out to the sea of people. Then they see the sister bridges and downtown Pittsburgh. That's the shot we're looking for.
"We've worked hard to make sure the site is laid out appropriately so we can capture that. I've seen the shot from other events, other football games. The overhead shot of the rivers. It's going to be even more special for the Draft."
The other visual highlight is having Acrisure Stadium directly behind the Draft Theater and Stage, which also allows for the stadium to be used for family-friendly activities.
"One, it gives a good backdrop," said Farago. "People know where Acrisure Stadium is so they'll be familiar with the site even though it will operate a bit different than it does for a Steelers game.
"But then we can also lean into it for two different reasons. One is for what we call our back-of-house operations and some of our media and prospect functions, which is great.
"And then on the flip side, thanks to the Steelers and the Rooney family, we're able to use the field at Acrisure from a fan facing activation perspective. So, giving fans the opportunity to go down on the playing surface where the Steelers play is special. We have a lot of different functions going on within the walls of the stadium that we're excited to highlight, particularly that ability for fans to go down on the field and participate in football-centric activities. Our partner, TOPPS, is activating down on field, and then you could watch the Draft on the video boards as well."
The Draft Theater and Stage isn't the only area getting finishing touches.
Point State Park, where Steelers Country and the NFL Experience will take place, is also in the final stages of setup as well.
Having two locations for Draft activities could be a challenge, but VisitPITTSBURGH, the Steelers and the NFL have collaborated to make sure it's a seamless experience for fans and visitors.
"I think the challenge is just making sure that even though we're in two physically different spots, it's one cohesive footprint," said Farago. "I think we're doing a really great job of that, dubbing it a bit of a walking tour of Pittsburgh.
"So, if you're at Point State Park, you enjoy everything that the park has to offer, the red carpet, the Steelers activations, great views of the river and stadium. And then you walk through part of downtown Pittsburgh with the ability to show off more of the city outside of our footprint. The connection point is the famous Roberto Clemente Bridge that brings you to the North Shore and Draft Theater and Stage area.
"Each city is unique and offers its own challenges, but we try to turn those challenges into opportunities. And how do we highlight the best of the City of Pittsburgh? I think by activating on both sides of the river here in Pittsburgh. At the North Shore and Point State Park, we're able to do that. So, we have two great backdrops for our expansive footprint."
Draft Activities Update from VisitPITTSBURGH:The NFL will host an expansive lineup of activities for the 2026 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light, taking place April 2325 in Pittsburgh. The Draft will transform the city's North Shore and Point State Park into a free, three-day celebration of football, community and culture, bringing the next generation of NFL stars to one of the country's most iconic football cities while celebrating Pittsburgh and the surrounding area.
"As we kick off an unforgettable week in Pittsburgh for the 2026 NFL Draft, we're proud to be working alongside VisitPITTSBURGH, the Pittsburgh Steelers and all of our partners on the ground to create a truly memorable experience for both local and visiting fans," said Peter O'Reilly, NFL EVP of club business, international, and league events. "The Draft is a three-day global festival of football and community, and we're so excited to deliver a free, accessible experience that invites fans everywhere to be part of welcoming the next generation of stars into the NFL."
Draft Theater and Main Stage
Located just outside Acrisure Stadium on Pittsburgh's North Shore, the Draft Theater and Main Stage will be where all 32 club selections will come to life across three days. Fans will be steps away from the action, as prospects are drafted and welcomed to their new teams on the Draft Stage.
Two iconic Pittsburgh landmarks will connect the expansive Draft campus. The Roberto Clemente Bridge will close to vehicle traffic and serve as a pedestrian-only fan corridor linking the North Shore and Downtown, while the Gateway Clipper riverboats will provide transportation between Draft locations on Friday & Saturday, offering fans a uniquely Pittsburgh way to experience the event.
Draft Day 1 Thursday, April 23
To kick off the celebrations, 17 Draft prospects will walk the NFL Draft Red Carpet presented by Toyota. The Red Carpet begins at 5 p.m. ET, with portions televised as part of ESPN's NFL Draft coverage.
Pittsburgh-raised and jazz-trained artist KELS will perform the National Anthem. Preceding the anthem, the James Weldon Johnson Foundation's National Hymn Choir, featuring The Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh, will perform the hymn "Lift Every Voice and Sing," conducted by Grammy Award-winning Dr. Jeffery Redding.
Steelers Legends and current players will join Commissioner Roger Goodell on stage to help kick off the night's festivities and welcome fans to Pittsburgh.
On Thursday, as each prospect walks to the stage after hearing his name called on stage, a special art installation created by Pittsburgh-based mixed-metal artist Kim Fox will line the Player Walkway. Fox spent months handcrafting mixed-metal interpretations of all 32 NFL team marks, layering reclaimed wood, vintage maps, collected tins and found materials into a quiltlike pattern unique to each club with Easter eggs hidden in the pieces tied to the city.
Additionally, Pittsburgh native and pop artist Burton Morris is building a 32-piece installation for the Prospect Green Room built by Lowe's, with each 20-by-20-inch panel mounted on a steel frame nodding to the city's roots and finished with his signature energy lines in team colors and an authentic helmet fixed to the front.
Draft Day 2 Friday, April 24
On the second night of the NFL Draft, the celebration continues with even more fan-centric experiences and the same high energy from the night before.
Across all three days of the NFL Draft, fans will experience a lineup of in-venue moments built to keep the energy electric. These interactive activations will feature team roll calls, t-shirt tosses, live fan cams and trivia. Fans will also have opportunities to win autographed footballs and helmets, take part in on-stage contests and enter for a chance at Super Bowl LXI tickets. Surprise guest appearances and player interviews will electrify the atmosphere, ensuring there's never a dull moment.
As part of the Day 2 festivities, Pittsburgh natives Wiz Khalifa and Bret Michaels will perform at 5:15 p.m. ET ahead of Rounds 2 and 3 as part of the NFL Draft Entertainment Concert Series presented by Bud Light. Multi-platinum, Grammy- and Golden Globe-nominated artist Wiz Khalifa broke through with his major-label debut "Rolling Papers", while Bret Michaels, iconic frontman of Poison, brings a multi-platinum-selling career in music spanning decades.
Draft Day 3 Saturday, April 25
Day 3 of the Draft will put a special spotlight on Pittsburgh's culture and community, offering a fun-filled day for families and fans. With an action-packed lineup of entertainment and local flair, this day will highlight the best the city and region have to offer.
Highlights Include:
Makers Market (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.): The NFL Draft Makers Market will spotlight over 14 local Pittsburgh businesses at North Shore, open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fans can shop a curated mix of homegrown brands, artisans and makers, turning Draft weekend into a celebration of the city's local community. Businesses include Brother Andre's Cafe, Fancy Pants Popcorn, Good L'oven Cookie Shop, Kim Fox / Worker Bird, Love Pittsburgh Shop, Mi Empanada, Michael's Table, Pittsburgh Pottery, Pittsburgh Worsh Company, Sandy Boo Delights, Sarris Candies, Slipfast Adornments, The Picked Chef and Uncle Jammys.
Topps Collector Celebration Day (10 a.m. - 1 p.m.): Topps is marking their return to the NFL in a big way at the NFL Draft Experience presented by American Express by taking over Acrisure Stadium with an immersive, interactive celebration of football card collecting. The event, taking place Saturday, April 25 will feature hands-on activations, live programming with athletes and NFL personalities, and plenty of opportunities to shop for cards of your favorite players and teams. Just like the NFL Draft Experience, the Topps Collector Celebration Day is a free, family-friendly event. An exclusive value box of the newly released 2025 Topps Chrome Football will be available for the first 1,000 fans through the gates.
After the Draft selections conclude on Saturday, global superstar Kane Brown will take the stage for a high-energy finale concert as part of the NFL Draft Entertainment Series presented by Bud Light. Following the success of his widely acclaimed 2025 record, "The High Road," Kane Brown continues to build on his multi-platinum, award-winning career.
All performances will take place at the Draft Theater adjacent to Acrisure Stadium. General fan viewing is free, and fans are encouraged to arrive early, as standing room will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
NFL Draft Experience Presented by American Express
Taking place all three days of the NFL Draft from April 2325, the NFL Draft Experience presented by American Express will be located at both the North Shore Draft campus, including on the field at Acrisure Stadium, and Point State Park, transforming one of Pittsburgh's most historic and scenic public spaces into a vibrant hub of football, community and culture.
The NFL Draft Experience offers an exciting, immersive festival featuring interactive activations, such as the 40-yard dash, field goal kicks, catching skills challenges and more, alongside NFL Hall of Fame exhibits. Fans can meet NFL stars and Legends, including Steelers players, and capture unforgettable moments with the Vince Lombardi Trophy and all 59 Super Bowl rings. The Play 60 Zone will host NFL FLAG drills, skills challenges and football clinics for younger fans. With activities for all ages, the NFL Draft Experience is the ultimate celebration of football, culture and community.
In addition to watching from the Draft Theater footprint, Acrisure Stadium will be open to fans looking to watch the NFL Draft onscreen and experience exclusive activations inside the stadium and on the field itself.
Additional Highlights:
Steelers Country: Steelers Country at the NFL Draft Experience presented by American Express will be a 12,000-square-foot interactive space located in the heart of Pittsburgh's Point State Park. The destination will celebrate the traditions of Steelers Nation while creating a centralized gathering place for fans to connect, engage and experience Draft weekend together.
American Express Fan Experience: At the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, American Express will pop up with an open-to-all fan experience (capacity limitations apply). Platinum Card Members can also make a reservation daily for a wristband to access select NFL-operated experiences and an on-site reservation to enjoy a session in the Card Member Lounge (reservations are limited). Eligible Card Members can enroll their Card in an offer valid for qualifying purchases at NFL Shop locations on-site at the NFL Draft. Terms apply.
NFL SHOP presented by American Express: As the official special event retail partner of the NFL, Fanatics is curating a robust merchandise assortment available at more than 10 locations throughout Pittsburgh's North Shore and Point State Park. The flagship 13,000-square-foot NFL Shop tent will offer 250+ products featuring exclusive Pittsburgh-inspired collections and collabs, and Draft specific products from top brands including Nike, New Era, Mitchell & Ness and more. Fanatics is also tapping into Pittsburgh's creative community at the 2026 NFL Draft, hosting a live art activation with local artist Jeremy Raymer, who will create one-of-one pieces from the brand's Bridge to Greatness collection on-site for fans while supplies last. The NFL Shop is open all three days of NFL Draft Experience.
Fans can enjoy a variety of food options throughout the NFL Draft Experience, including local vendors in the Taste of Pittsburgh Presented by Heinz on the North Shore, with food vendors onsite to provide guests with a taste of Pittsburgh's vibrant culinary scene and iconic local fare. A full list of vendors will be available in the NFL OnePass App.
Throughout the weekend, from April 2325, a large-scale light projection on the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh will celebrate Pittsburgh's football legacy and spotlight real-time draft picks nightly from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., viewable from the public viewing area at Point State Park.
Fans are encouraged to register for free entry to the NFL Draft through the NFL OnePass app or at NFL.com/DraftAccess. NFL OnePass provides up-to-date information, exclusive content and access to giveaways, including a grand prize trip for two to Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis, and all adults must register, with the option to include up to five children.
The NFL Draft will be fully accessible to all fans. Details on mobility assistance, parking, transportation and road closures are available via the Know Before You Go information on NFL OnePass.
Wednesday, April 15
The Football Town:As Pittsburgh prepares to welcome visitors for the 2026 NFL Draft Presented by Bud Light, The Football Townthe first-ever immersive format documentary produced by NFL Filmswill be free for Draft attendees from April 23-25, expanding access to a signature experience that captures the region's deep-rooted football tradition.
Produced by NFL Films in partnership with VisitPITTSBURGH, the Pittsburgh Steelers and U. S. Steel, The Football Town is a 50-minute film that explores the storied football tradition of the region and its unique place in the history of the sport. The film is playing at the Kamin Science Center's Rangos Giant Cinema.
Narrated by Pittsburgh native Pat McAfee, the film includes appearances from many Steelers legends including Bill Cowher, Jerome Bettis, Joey Porter Sr. and James Harrison who talk about how football is woven into the cultural identity of the region. The film features the region's football traditions like Friday night lights, Pop Warner youth football, college programs and the Steelers on Sundays.
As part of NFL Draft week programming, The Football Town will be offered free of charge with multiple daily showings on a first-come, first-served basis from April 23-25. Screenings will take place at the following times:
1. Thursday, April 23 and Friday, April 24: 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
2. Saturday, April 25: 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
To obtain information and tickets to the film, individuals must first download the NFL's One Pass app and register to attend the Draft. The Kamin Science Center is located on Pittsburgh's North Shore across the street from Acrisure Stadium and within the Draft footprint. Additional activities and programming that will take place during the Draft can also be found in the One Pass app.
The Football Town is presented by U. S. Steel in celebration of its 125th anniversary and its deep roots in Pittsburgh.
The 2026 NFL Draft Presented by Bud Light will take place on April 2325, bringing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region for a once-in-a-generation event.
Tuesday, April 14
Celebrating local artists:Excitement is building with the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh just over a week away.
And as Pittsburgh gets closer to hosting one of the most exciting events of the NFL season, more activities are being announced on a regular basis.
The latest is the artist partnerships and creative activations that spotlight Pittsburgh's vibrant art, design and sports culture.
The NFL is collaborating with two Pittsburgh artists, who will each create pieces that honor all 32 teams. In addition, there will be a projection show that can be seen on the Wyndham Hotel, which is located adjacent to Point State Park where Steelers Country and the NFL Experience are taking place.
"The NFL Draft is an opportunity to celebrate both the next generation of football talent and the city hosting this moment, and we do that through art, creativity, and storytelling," said Marissa Solis, NFL senior vice president of global brand and consumer marketing. "By partnering with local artists and weaving the city's rich sports and cultural identity into Draft celebrations, we're excited to bring Pittsburgh to life in a visually dynamic way throughout the weekend."
Below is a list of what to expect:
Celebrating Renowned Local Artists
Kim Fox, a Pittsburgh-based mixed-metal artist, will create a special art installation for the Player Walkway - the path each prospect will take as they get drafted to their new team and walk onto the Main Stage.
Burton Morris, a Pittsburgh native and pop artist, is creating 32 separate pieces that will be displayed as one large installation in the Prospect Green Room built by Lowe's.
Fox's installation will feature handcrafted mixed-metal interpretations of all 32 NFL team marks, with each piece made from tin and mixed-metals in a quiltlike pattern. Over the past few months, she's spent hours creating unique pieces of artwork to bring each club's logo to life. In the process, Fox combines reclaimed wood, vintage maps, collected tins and other found materials to manufacture each piece of art. She overlays the materials, patching the pieces together to highlight the uniqueness of each city. Fox is including hidden symbolism pertinent to each city within her pieces.
"I love this city so much, and the impact that football has on the community is powerful," said Fox. "Partnering with the NFL to create work that celebrates this huge moment in these players' lives is a glorious treat."
Burton Morris, a Pittsburgh native pop artist, is creating 32 separate pieces that will be displayed as one large installation in the Prospect Green Room. Built on a steel frame to honor the city's history, each 20x20" piece is customized with Burton's signature 'energy lines' that highlight unique team colors. Authentic team helmets are seamlessly attached to each piece, creating dynamic, 3D mixed-media work celebrating all 32 clubs.
"I've been fortunate to collaborate with many athletes and sports organizations, but I never expected that my art would be a part of the NFL Draft in my hometown," said Morris. "I'm proud to represent the robust Pittsburgh art scene and be a part of this monumental day for these athletes."
Honoring Steelers History and Iconic Draft Moments with Wyndham Hotel Projection
Beginning April 23, a large-scale light projection on the Wyndham Hotel will pay tribute to Pittsburgh's deep football legacy throughout NFL Draft weekend. The nightly show, running from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. through Saturday, April 25, will spotlight 2026 NFL Draft top prospects and picks, Western Pennsylvania's Hall of Fame football legacy, the Steelers storied history as six-time Super Bowl champions and home of the legendary Steel Curtain, and real-time "On the Clock" team-specific picks. Powered by 24 laser projectors delivering 768,000 lumens of light across 41,000 square feet of projection surface, the display will be viewable from the public viewing area at Point State Park.
Highlighting Art and Design Throughout NFL Draft
To highlight the league's larger commitment to art-driven storytelling, the NFL is partnering with The Andy Warhol Museum and its Youth Workforce Program to bring a live Pop Art studio to the NFL Draft Red Carpet presented by Toyota, celebrating pop art's origins in Pittsburgh.
On the red carpet, NFL prospects will co-create silkscreen self-portraits, printing them on hand-painted backgrounds to transform their images into custom works of art. The final portraits will accompany players down the carpet for photos and interviews, giving media and fans a firsthand look at Warhol's iconic silkscreen process in action. The pieces will be available for prospects to take with them, as they enter their journey into the NFL.
For all the can't-miss moments, fans interested in attending the 2026 NFL Draft Experience presented by American Express must download the NFL OnePass app or register via the website atNFL.com/DraftAccess. NFL OnePass is the must-have tool for navigating Draft weekend and provides real-time updates, a full schedule of interactive activities, Know-Before-You-Go information, and access to exclusive digital content and prizes including a grand prize trip for two to Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles.
The NFL Draft presented by Bud Light will be broadcast live on NFL Network, ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and will be available to stream with NFL+ beginning Thursday, April 23 at 8:00 p.m. ET with the first round, followed by Rounds 2-3 Friday, April 24 at 7:00 p.m. ET and Rounds 4-7 Saturday, April 25 at 12 p.m. ET from Pittsburgh.
Draft Theater and Main Stage on North Shore:
The Draft Theater and Main Stage will be located just outside Acrisure Stadium on Pittsburgh's North Shore, where the Draft will bring all 32 club selections to life across three days. Fans in attendance will be positioned in the heart of one of the country's most recognizable sports districts and steps away from the action as prospects hear their names called and dreams become reality. Throughout the broadcast, Pittsburgh's skyline, rivers and iconic bridges will provide a backdrop that reflects the beauty of the city and give fans in attendance a front row seat to the football celebrations.
Two iconic Pittsburgh mainstays will connect the Draft campus. The Roberto Clemente Bridge will close to vehicle traffic and serve as a pedestrian-only fan corridor linking the North Shore and Downtown, while the Gateway Clipper Fleet riverboats will provide transportation between Draft locations, offering fans a uniquely Pittsburgh way to experience the event while highlighting the city's waterways.
Point State Park Activities:
Steelers Country: 'Steelers County' will be the go-to spot for all things black and gold and include a hometown feeling of being in a Pittsburgh neighborhood, which features a Steelers fan cave, Steelers bar, and a home tailgating atmosphere. In addition, there will be a stage for live entertainment with SNR broadcasts and Steelers legends appearances.
Hail Mary: Test your long-distance accuracy like a pro by throwing a deep pass over defenders into a drop-in net.
40-Yard Dash: Put your skills to the test by racing down the field against your opponents and digital NFL players on a giant 40-yard long LED wall.
Autograph Stage: Get free autographs from current NFL players and NFL Legends. Schedule will be available by April 20 in the OnePass app with regular updates (*subject to change without notice).
Taste of Pittsburgh: Enjoy selections from some of Pittsburgh's restaurants in a "taste of the town" tailgate.Featured local restaurants to be confirmed by April 15.
Steelers Vince Lombardi Trophies: Fans may take their photo with the Steelers Super Bowl trophy, the most iconic trophy in sports, and celebrate the winning history of the team.
First Overall Pick: Visit a replica Draft Set and take your spot behind the podium as a #1 Draft pick.
Field Goal Challenge: Step right up and take your shot at kicking a field goal just like the pros.
Long Snap: Try your best to execute a perfect punt and field goal snap.
North Shore Activities:
Play 60 Zone:Steelers fan can take part in football-related activities at the Steelers mini-field located outside of Gate A at Acrisure Stadium.
Activities include:
Vertical Jump: Take your position at the vertical jump and find out what the differential between your reach and the flag you hit is, just like at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Field Goal Challenge: Step right up and take your shot at kicking a field goal just like the pros.
Gear Up and Go: Kids can try on NFL equipment and feel like a pro
On the Field:Head onto the Acrisure Stadium field to take part in fun and games.
Activities include:
Field Goal Kick: Attempt a field goal just like the proson the field at Acrisure.
Play Football Field: Watch and learn from USA Football coaches and NFL players about football and NFL FLAG football, as well as Heads Up tackling during various clinics, competitions, and demonstrations. On-field clinics are open to kids ages 6-14. Daily clinics open on a first-come, first-served basis. Schedule still to come.
Fan Viewing: Fans are invited to watch Round 1 on Thursday, as well as Rounds 2 & 3 on Friday from the field at Acrisure Stadium. Blankets are permitted, however they must be in use at all times.
North Shore Attractions:
Bud Light Beer Hall: It's easy to enjoy the NFL Draft at the Bud Light Beer Hall. Stop by to take a break, enjoy an ice-cold Bud Light, and snap a picture at our fun photo opp. Guests must be 21 and over to partake in any alcoholic beverages.
Look Like A Pro: Step inside a uniformed body-cast mold bearing the insignia of your favorite NFL team and have a friend snap your photo.
Taste of Pittsburgh: Enjoy selections from some of Pittsburgh's restaurants in a "taste of the town" tailgate.Featured local restaurants to be confirmed by April 15.
NFL Draft Photo Frames: Take a picture in one of the jumbo photo frames.
NFL Museum: Visit the NFL Museum and experience a replica NFL locker room as it appears on gameday. Experience the sights of a real NFL pregame inside the video tunnel.
Also visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame curated exhibit presented by Novartis to include:
Hall of Fame Bronze Busts
George S. Halas NFC Championship Trophy
Lamar Hunt AFC Championship Trophy
Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award presented by Nationwide
Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award
Heisman Trophy
History of the Hall of Fame
*located inside the Sportsworks Building
NFL Locker Room: Celebrate all 32 NFL teams with the sites and sounds of an NFL locker room, as it appears on gameday.
*located inside the Sportsworks Building
Pepsi Team Helmets: Fans can take their picture with an oversized replica of all 32 NFL team helmets, presented by Pepsi.
Super Bowl Rings: See all 59 Super Bowl rings up close and in detail at the NFL Museum.
NFL Films The Football Town: Football is part of what makes Western Pennsylvania special, and the story of this rich tradition is told in 'The Football Town', a special NFL Films presentation produced as part of Pittsburgh's celebration of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The film, which is narrated by Pittsburgh-area native Pat McAfee, tells the story and shares the love of football in the region - delivered in a first-of-its-kind, immersive large screen format at the Rangos Giant Cinema at the Kamins Science Center, within the NFL Draft footprint.
Fun on the field:Steelers legends James Harrison and Joey Porter Sr. will take part in the Topps Collector Celebration Day, a large-scale, free, family-friendly fan experience taking place on the field at Acrisure Stadium during Day 3 of the NFL Draft on Saturday, April 25.
The event will take place from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., with players participating at various times. The first 1,000 attendees will receive a free pack of Topps Chrome Football, alongside additional prizes including hobby boxes, signed memorabilia, premium NFL gear, and exclusive behind-the-scenes Draft experiences.
More details: Fans in attendance will experience live stage programming including community pack rips and "Pack Wars" featuring 2025 Topps Chrome Football, with live broadcasts and giveaways throughout. NFL players, legends, and special guests will appear onsite, interacting with fans, trading cards, and participating in live moments.
The event will also feature a hobby shop experience with eight shops from around the country representing all 32 NFL teams, creating a unique communal trading environment.
Fans can RSVP in advance.
Monday, April 13
Steelers Country:Steelers fans near and far, and NFL fans from around the globe, will descend on the City of Pittsburgh for the 2026 NFL Draft Presented by Bud Light on April 23-25.
And for those looking for the black and gold flavor, Steelers Country is your go-to destination, located in the NFL Draft Experience Presented by American Express at Point State Park.
The Steelers are providing fans with ways to engage with the team during the NFL Draft with interactive exhibits and live programming, all free with the NFL OnePass app. In addition, there will be retail experiences and an exclusive sweepstakes.
"With our deep football roots and central location, we know fans from across the league will flock to Pittsburgh for this year's Draft," said Dan Rooney, Vice President of Strategy for the Pittsburgh Steelers. "We also know Steelers Nation will be out in full force, so we wanted to create a dedicated place for our fanssome of the most passionate in all of sportsto gather, celebrate our traditions, and enjoy a memorable Draft experience together."
If you want a Pittsburgh feel to the Draft, this is the place to visit.
Steelers Country is a 12,000-square-foot interactive landing spot for fans of all ages that shares the traditions of Steelers Nation and is a place for fans to gather.
Steelers Country features:
--> Steelers Nation Unite Bar A global Steelers-themed bar experience with rotating locations from Steelers bars around the world, offering beverages for purchase.
--> Immersive Fan Cave A 1970s-inspired Pittsburgh basement, recreating the look and feel of a classic Steelers fan's home.
--> Steelers Six Super Bowl Rings Display Larger-than-life replicas celebrating each of the franchise's championship victories.
--> Entertainment and Shows - Fans will also have the opportunity to watch live Q&As with Steelers Legends and current players, enjoy daily entertainment on the Steelers Country stage, including the Steelers Draft Countdown Show on Thursday, April 23 from 7-8 p.m., and Friday, April 24 from 6-7 p.m.
--> Terrible Towel Art Piece A custom installation honoring one of the most iconic symbols in all of sports.
--> Yard Games & Photo Opportunities Interactive games and branded photo moments for fans of all ages.
Steelers Pro Shop Locations:
The Steelers Merchandise trailer will be located within the Steelers Country footprint throughout Draft weekend.
In addition, multiple retail locations throughout the Draft footprint will feature exclusive merchandise and the latest Steelers gear. Fans can visit the temporary Steelers Pro Shop location at 275 North Shore Drive, Pittsburgh Pa 15212 all through April for your complete lineup of Steelers gear and exclusive NFL Draft items and a special-edition Terrible Towel created to celebrate Pittsburgh hosting the Draft.
Fans can also visit theSteelers Pro Shop Online Store.
Lombardi Trophy Display:
Fans can get a first-hand look at the Steelers Super Bowl trophies on display directly across from Steelers Country at Point State Park.
Steelers Country Hours:
Thursday, April 23 12:00 10:00 p.m.
Friday, April 24 12:00 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 25 9:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m.
* All times are local and subject to change. Admission is free once you register on theNFL OnePass App.
Taking shape:It won't be long until the NFL Draft Theater and Stage is completed outside of Acrisure Stadium on the North Shore, as more of the stage has come into view over the last few days.
The area is looking more like the initial renderings that were released by the league, and that is something that has people feeling good.
"It's pretty rewarding and hats off to our team, the design team, the build team that really bring it to life," said Steve Farago, director of event operations for the NFL and the individual who is overseeing the building project. "It's uncanny how realistic the actual build is to the render. Every year I see it. We put out these beautiful drawings and renders. The shots of the rivers and North Shore.
"Then come the first night of the Draft, when everything's lit up and built on April 23, you're going to look back at the render and say, 'Wow, this is really close to what the render looked like.'
"So, to be able to take that from its early period of design and vision and then fast forward to when it's actually built is pretty special and it's a big congratulations to the entire team, local, NFL and our production partners to be able to bring that to life."
Thursday, April 9
Prospects headed to Pittsburgh:A total of 16 prospects are confirmed to attend the 2026 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light in Pittsburgh.
Three colleges Ohio State (five players), Alabama (two) and Miami (Fla.) (two) will have multiple players on-site. The Big Ten leads all conferences with six prospects confirmed to attend, followed by the Southeastern Conference (five), Atlantic Coast Conference (two), Big 12 (two) and Independent (one).
The Draft begins with the first round on Thursday night, April 23, and continues Friday, April 24, with Rounds 2-3. The Draft will conclude on Saturday, April 25, with Rounds 4-7.
The NFL Draft, which was held in Green Bay last year, will be hosted in Pittsburgh for the first time since 1948 and in the state of Pennsylvania for the first time since 2017.
The players confirmed to attend this year's NFL Draft to date:
1. David Bailey LB Texas Tech
2. Rueben Bain Jr. DE Miami
3. Mansoor Delane DB LSU
4. Caleb Downs DB Ohio State
5. Keldric Faulk DE Auburn
6. Colton Hood DB Tennessee
7. Makai Lemon WR USC
8. Jeremiyah Love RB Notre Dame
9. Francis Mauigoa OL Miami
10. Kayden McDonald DT Ohio State
11. Kadyn Proctor T Alabama
12. Arvell Reese LB Ohio State
13. Ty Simpson QB Alabama
14. Sonny Styles LB Ohio State
15. Carnell Tate WR Ohio State
16. Jordyn Tyson WR Arizona State
2026 NFL Draft Details:
WHAT:
91st Annual National Football League Player Selection Meeting.
WHERE:
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
WHEN:
8 p.m. ET, Thursday, April 23 (Round 1).
7 p.m. ET, Friday, April 24 (Rounds 2-3).
Noon ET, Saturday, April 25 (Rounds 4-7).
The first round will conclude on Thursday by approximately 10:30 p.m. ET. In 2025, the first round consumed three hours and 29 minutes. The second and third rounds will conclude on Friday by approximately 11 p.m. ET. The second and third rounds took a combined four hours and 12 minutes in 2025. The draft will conclude by approximately 7 p.m. ET on Saturday with the final four rounds. Rounds four through seven took six hours and 57 minutes in 2025.
ROUNDS:
Seven Rounds Round 1 on Thursday, April 23; Rounds 2 and 3 on Friday, April 24; and Rounds 4 through 7 on Saturday, April 25.
TIME LIMITS:
Round 1: 8 minutes per selection.
Round 2: Seven minutes per selection.
Rounds 3 through 6, including compensatory picks: Five minutes per selection.
Round 7, including compensatory picks: Four minutes per selection.
TELEVISION & RADIO:
The 2026 NFL Draft will be televised nationally by NFL Network, ABC, ESPN and ESPN Deportes, and can be heard nationwide on Westwood One Radio, SiriusXM NFL Radio and ESPN Radio.
MOBILE:
Live NFL Network coverage of the 2026 NFL Draft is available across devices (smartphone, PC, tablet and connected TVs) through the NFL app or NFL.com/watch for subscribers of participating NFL Network providers and on NFL+. For more information, go to NFL.com/nflnetwork.
NFL CHANNEL:
Additional live coverage of the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh is available on the NFL Channel, the NFL's free ad-supported streaming offering, with NFL Draft Center. Mike Yam, Bucky Brooks and Lance Zierlein anchor the coverage Thursday at 8 p.m. ET, Friday at 7 p.m. ET and Saturday at noon ET. The NFL Channel is available on the NFL App, Roku Channel, Peacock, Pluto TV, Tubi, Vizio WatchFree, Xumo Play, LG and at NFL.com/nflchannel.
Tuesday, April 7
Taking the next step:Over a week ago, construction began on the Stage and Draft Theater for the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, and the next phase is now in progress.
While the arches were the first structure to be put in place, another layer has now been added, with the 'skins' of the theater being wrapped over the arches.
"We're on time, right where we need to be for the theater," said Steve Farago, director of event operations for the NFL and the individual who is overseeing the building project. "I just spoke to our production lead and we're putting on what we call the skins of the theater, which are the outer layer that wrap around the truss arches that were built over the last couple days. So that's where we are the process now.
"We'll continue to finalize that phase of it. And then we'll start to work inside the theater and bring in some of those production elements. So, it's getting the bones of the structure up over the last week or so, putting the skins on it now, and then, we'll work inside of the theater probably towards the end of the week."
The process of building the Draft Stage and Theater isn't a simple one, and takes almost an entire month, with the first sign of it beginning on March 28 and continuing until Draft week.
"It's almost a four-week process," said Farago. "The first trucks rolled in on March 28 with the equipment for the theater. It will be an ongoing build up until probably about Monday or Tuesday of Draft week.
"The big portion of the structure is up now. The next step will be rigging for a lot of the lights that we bring in, the screens that are going to be hung, some of the decor.
"So, every day you guys go out there and see the theater, there'll be a new element added in, but we'll work on that right up until event week. We usually put the finishing touches on that Tuesday and then Wednesday before the Draft starts, we'll do rehearsals and walkthroughs. But it's almost a full month process to get it built and ready to go."
Showings add for 'The Football Town':With the NFL Draft only weeks away, the Kamin Science Center announced that a select number of special evening showtimes of "The Football Town," exclusively showing at the Rangos Giant Cinema, have been released.
Football is part of what makes Western Pennsylvania special, and the story of the rich tradition is being told in 'The Football Town', a special NFL Films presentation produced in partnership with the Steelers, VisitPITTSBURGH and U.S. Steel in advance of the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.
Evening screenings will take place on select dates in the weeks leading up to the NFL Draft. Visitors are encouraged to secure tickets in advance online, as showings are expected to sell out.
-- >>View the full schedule and order tickets today
Shop in Steelers Style:With the NFL Draft Stage and Theater under construction, the Steelers Pro Shop has been temporarily re-located to 275 North Shore Drive, within steps from Acrisure Stadium and the site of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The store is open 7 days a week, 10 am-5 pm ET, (except for April 5) and is still your place for all the latest Steelers and NFL Draft merchandise. Extended hours will be announced for the NFL Draft.
New items are arriving on a regular basis, including the unique Limited Edition 2026 Draft Poster.
Stop by today and shop al the latest collections.
Thursday, April 2
Stage is being set:A sure sign that the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh is coming fast is the progress on the NFL Draft Theater and Stage just outside of Acrisure Stadium.
As of today, it's 21 days until the NFL Draft will start in Pittsburgh, and excitement is building.
The construction has been on-going for several days now, with a feel for the scope of the structure starting to come into focus.
According to the NFL, the structure weighs almost 1.5 million pounds with 1.4 miles of truss. It will include over 2,700 automated lighting fixtures as part of the full construction of all areas of the theater, which includes the green room, and the theater will have 1,317 LED video panels.
Draft entertainment announced:The NFL announced the headline acts for the free NFL Draft Entertainment Series presented by Bud Light, with plenty of Pittsburgh flavor a part of it.
Pittsburgh's own Wiz Khalifa, and Pittsburgh-area native and diehard Steelers fan Bret Michaels will perform on Friday, April 24.
Global country music superstar Kane Brown will bring the NFL Draft to a close when he performs on Saturday, April 25.
Khalifa and Michaels will take the stage prior to Day 2 of the Draft at 5:15 p.m., before Rounds 2 and 3 begin.
"Coming home to Pittsburgh for the Draft is pretty special," said Khalifa. "This city raised me, and the energy here is different. Being back with the fans and representing the city in a moment like this just feels right."
Michaels performed at halftime of the Steelers Wild Card game last season and is excited to hit the stage for the Draft.
"I cannot be more honored, excited and fired up to be asked to perform at the Pittsburgh 2026 Draft on Friday night," said Michaels. "As a Pittsburgh native and a diehard fan of the Steelers, the NFL and all things Pittsburgh, this is a dream come true."
Brown will perform on Saturday, April 25, at the conclusion of the Draft, and it's not the first time he has performed for a football crowd in Pittsburgh. Brown performed his hit 'Homesick' for the Steelers Salute to Service game in 2018 at Acrisure Stadium.
"The Draft is one of those weekends where you can feel how much the game means to people," said Brown. "Fans, players, the whole city, everyone's part of it. Being here for that is going to be unforgettable."
The Draft will kick off on Thursday, April 23, with another Pittsburgh native, KELS, who will perform the National Anthem. In addition, the James Weldon Johnson Foundation's National Hymn Choir, featuring The Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh, will perform the hymn 'Lift Every Voice and Sing.'
Shop in Steelers Style:With the NFL Draft Stage and Theater under construction, the Steelers Pro Shop has been temporarily re-located to 275 North Shore Drive, within steps from Acrisure Stadium and the site of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The store is open 7 days a week, 10 am-5 pm ET, (except for April 5) and is still your place for all the latest Steelers and NFL Draft merchandise. Extended hours will be announced for the NFL Draft.
New items are arriving on a regular basis, including the unique Limited Edition 2026 Draft Poster.
Stop by today and shop al the latest collections.
Showings add for 'The Football Town':With the NFL Draft only weeks away, the Kamin Science Center announced that a select number of special evening showtimes of "The Football Town," exclusively showing at the Rangos Giant Cinema, have been released.
Football is part of what makes Western Pennsylvania special, and the story of the rich tradition is being told in 'The Football Town', a special NFL Films presentation produced in partnership with the Steelers, VisitPITTSBURGH and U.S. Steel in advance of the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.
Evening screenings will take place on select dates in the weeks leading up to the NFL Draft. Visitors are encouraged to secure tickets in advance online, as showings are expected to sell out.
-- >>View the full schedule and order tickets today
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