The NFL Draft is going back to Chicago in 2016, according to multiple reports. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the draft will take place from April 28-30. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is expected to announce the site and the dates at a Tuesday afternoon news conference alongside Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel.
The NFL Draft will return to Chicago in 2016, according to reports
Draft Town is back after the NFL Draft made its initial return to Chicago in 2015 following a 51-year hiatus.
Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago hosted the draft in 2015 as well, breaking a 51-year streak of it being held in New York City. Festivities took place inside the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University across from Grant Park. The 2015 draft included an interactive element for fans in the Draft Town setup in the park, which featured team-specific exhibits, concerts and drill demonstrations (PFT Commenter covered the spectacle). Fans who couldn't get into the auditorium could watch Goodell announce each selection on a large projection.
The NFL moved the draft out of New York City following a poor experience in 2014. Because of a scheduling overlap with a Rockettes show at Radio City Music Hall, the draft had to pushed back from late April until after the first week in May. The change in venue also helped give the draft the grandiosity the NFL believes it deserves. The success of Draft Town could make the NFL Draft a mainstay in Chicago for years to come.
SB Nation presents: How the NFL Draft grew into a national spectacle
See More:
