The Washington Commanders are reportedly poised to host the 2027 NFL Draft in Washington, D.C., a move that coincides with the organization’s ambitions to construct a new stadium within the nation’s capital. Unsubstantiated reports suggest that former President Donald Trump is expected to make the official announcement on Monday.
Commanders team owner Josh Harris had previously expressed his vision of bringing the NFL Draft to the National Mall, a concept he envisioned materializing within the next few years. He disclosed his aspiration in August as he diligently worked towards securing the old RFK Stadium site as the future home of the Commanders.
"Think about the idea of having – and I’m not breaking news here, it’s not done yet – but think about a draft on the Mall, and how exciting that would be, for the city of Washington, for the NFL," Harris remarked at the time. "Everyone sees that, and obviously there’s a lot of complexity to it with the Park Service, but I believe it will happen, and it’s a question of when."
It appears that Harris’s dream is edging closer to reality, with the potential hosting of the 2027 NFL Draft signaling a significant step forward. The decision to potentially award the draft to Washington, D.C., underscores the NFL’s continued efforts to broaden the draft’s appeal and showcase the event in prominent locations across the country.
The NFL Draft has evolved significantly over the years. Once a relatively low-key affair, it has transformed into a multi-day spectacle attracting hundreds of thousands of fans. The draft was most recently held in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The NFL’s smallest market hosted more than 600,000 fans over the course of the three-day event.
The draft has not always been a traveling roadshow. At one point, it was a permanent fixture at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. In those days, the entire event was condensed into a single day. However, as the NFL sought to expand the draft’s reach and generate greater excitement, it decided to take the event on the road, transforming it into a three-day extravaganza.
Chicago served as the host city in 2015 and 2016, followed by Philadelphia and Dallas. In 2020, due to the coronavirus pandemic, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the draft picks from his home. In the years following, Cleveland, Las Vegas, Kansas City and Detroit have all had turns hosting the draft. Pittsburgh is scheduled to host the event in 2026, paving the way for Washington, D.C., to potentially host in 2027.
The potential selection of Washington, D.C., to host the 2027 NFL Draft is particularly noteworthy given the Commanders’ ongoing efforts to secure a new stadium. The team has been exploring various options, including the RFK Stadium site, as it seeks to replace FedExField, its current home in Landover, Maryland.
Securing the RFK Stadium site would be a significant victory for the Commanders, as it would allow the team to return to the District of Columbia, where it has a long and storied history. A new stadium at the RFK site would not only provide the Commanders with a state-of-the-art facility but also serve as a catalyst for economic development in the surrounding area.
The prospect of hosting the NFL Draft on the National Mall adds another layer of excitement to the Commanders’ stadium aspirations. The National Mall is one of the most iconic locations in the United States, and hosting the draft there would provide an unparalleled backdrop for the event. Imagine the draft stage set against the backdrop of the Washington Monument or the U.S. Capitol Building.
Of course, there are numerous logistical challenges associated with hosting the draft on the National Mall. The National Park Service would need to grant permission, and careful consideration would need to be given to security, transportation, and environmental impact. However, if these challenges can be overcome, the potential rewards would be immense.
The NFL Draft has become a major economic driver for host cities. The influx of hundreds of thousands of fans generates significant revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retailers. The draft also provides a valuable opportunity for host cities to showcase their attractions and amenities to a national audience.
In addition to the economic benefits, hosting the NFL Draft can also boost a city’s image and reputation. The event attracts significant media attention, putting the host city in the spotlight. This can lead to increased tourism and investment in the long term.
If Washington, D.C., is selected to host the 2027 NFL Draft, it would be a major coup for the city and the Commanders. The event would provide a significant boost to the local economy, showcase the city’s attractions to a national audience, and enhance the Commanders’ efforts to secure a new stadium.
The reported involvement of former President Trump adds an element of intrigue to the potential announcement. Trump has a long history of involvement with sports, and his support could be beneficial to the Commanders’ stadium efforts.
Trump to touting the Commanders stadium deal, and his hopes it will lead to less crime in DC. This is not the first time he has been involved in sports related matters.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to award the 2027 NFL Draft to Washington, D.C., rests with the NFL. However, the Commanders’ strong bid, coupled with the potential support of former President Trump, makes the city a strong contender. If Washington, D.C., is selected, it would be a momentous occasion for the city, the Commanders, and the NFL.
