2026 NFL Draft Kicks Off In Detroit With High-Stakes First Round

The 2026 NFL Draft began Thursday night in Detroit, drawing thousands of fans to downtown's Campus Martius Park as teams made franchise-altering picks. This year's draft is trending nationally as analysts debate whether USC quarterback Jaden Rashada or Ohio State defensive end Jahkeem Stewart will be the first overall selection by the Chicago Bears.

Detroit is hosting the draft for the first time since 1980, with local businesses reporting record pre-draft revenue from visiting fans. The three-day event comes at a pivotal moment for the NFL, which saw television ratings surge 18% last season amid expanded playoff competition.

All 32 team executives are present at the draft theater, where security has been tightened following last year's protest interruption in Kansas City. The first round saw several major trades, including the Las Vegas Raiders moving up to select Florida State wide receiver Hykeem Williams at No. 7.

Social media erupted when the New York Jets selected Alabama cornerback Domani Jackson at No. 10, marking their first defensive first-round pick since 2021. Draft analysts note this year's class features unprecedented depth at offensive line, with six tackles projected to go in the opening round.

The draft continues Friday with rounds 2-3 and concludes Saturday with rounds 4-7. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell told reporters Thursday night that Detroit's hosting preparations set "a new standard" for future draft cities. Local officials estimate the event will bring over $120 million in economic impact to the region.

Fans without tickets can watch coverage on ESPN, NFL Network and ABC, which are broadcasting from new riverfront studios along the Detroit River. The draft's popularity reflects growing interest in offseason NFL content, with league officials reporting a 32% year-over-year increase in draft-related merchandise sales.