Gov. Josh Shapiro recently sent a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, expressing support for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ bid to host the NFL Draft in 2026 or 2027.
“As the birthplace of America – and as we prepare to celebrate our country’s 250th birthday in 2026 – the commonwealth of Pennsylvania will be a central hub of economic activity over the next several years, and we would be honored for the NFL Draft to be a centerpiece of these celebrations,” Shapiro said. “Today, Pittsburgh has established itself as one of the most dynamic cities on the East Coast – and the birthplace of professional football; Pittsburgh is the best choice in the country to host the NFL Draft. The commonwealth of Pennsylvania is excited and ready to work together to host this historic draft and show the country what Pennsylvania is all about.”
If selected, it is estimated more than 350,000 visitors could come to Pittsburgh, and the city’s economy could get a boost of between $120 million and $160 million in direct spending, according to VisitPittsburgh.
The last time Pennsylvania hosted the draft was in 2017 in Philadelphia.
Annually, tourism supports more than 486,000 jobs statewide and generates more than $76 billion.