The NFL unveiled new 2021 Draft details on Monday (March 22).
The 86th annual NFL Draft is slated for April 29 through May 1, “across iconic downtown Cleveland locations, including FirstEnergy Stadium, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center,” according to an NFL news release.
Officials planned draft activities, including a free fan event, and select personnel on site and adhering to COVID-19 protocols. Those people include select prospects, fans, ESPN and ABC crews, and others, according to the release.
"We are thrilled to be heading to Cleveland for the NFL Draft, which has become one of the most highly anticipated events in sports" said Peter O'Reilly, NFL Executive Vice President, Club Business & League Events. "Just months after executing a safe and successful Super Bowl LV, we look forward to bringing the excitement of our Draft traditions to fans in collaboration with the Browns, Destination Cleveland, Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, the City of Cleveland, and all of our local Cleveland partners."
The NFL Draft Main Stage will be set up in front of Lake Erie, which will be the “central hub” for draft activities, and will also host headlining artists each day, thanks to a partnership with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, according to the release. It wasn’t immediately clear on Monday which artists would perform.
"We are thrilled for Cleveland to host this year's NFL Draft and celebrate the hard-working and inspiring new Draft prospects, football's great history, and our fans. It is even more special as we commemorate our 75th anniversary and have the opportunity to showcase the wonderful city of Cleveland to an international audience and to a responsible number of fans and visitors during the weekend," said Dee and Jimmy Haslam, Managing and Principal Partners of the Cleveland Browns. "We greatly appreciate the continued collaboration by the NFL, local and state government officials and medical experts who are all focused on creating a memorable and safe experience and we are also extremely encouraged by the state of Ohio's vaccination rates and advancements that are allowing us to make the progress needed to return to a safe and more normal environment."
NFL Network, ESPN and ABC will broadcast each day of the Draft. The NFL noted in the release that it would keep working with state and local officials to ensure safety, including requiring masks and social distancing.
"Cleveland welcomes the 2021 NFL Draft to our city," said Mayor Frank G. Jackson. "Residents and visitors from around the world will experience Cleveland's hospitality and see why our city continues to be a destination of choice for large-scale events. We look forward to working with the Cleveland Browns, the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, the NFL and our other partners to execute a safe, successful event in accordance with health and safety guidelines."
For more information, visit the NFL’s website.
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