Minneapolis expected to host 2028 NFL Draft, reports say

DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) - Minnesota football fans may soon have a major reason to celebrate. Multiple reports indicate Minneapolis is expected to host the 2028 NFL Draft, with ESPN’s Adam Schefter reporting the event could be awarded to the city at this week’s NFL owners meetings in Orlando.

Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer first reported the news, with Schefter later confirming the expectation. If finalized, the event would give Vikings and Packers fans a chance to see their teams’ draft picks in person for the first time in Minnesota.

According to Fox Sports, Wisconsin has hosted the NFL Draft twice, first in 1940 and most recently in 2025.

The city has been actively pursuing the event. In March, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced the city’s bid in a video outside U.S. Bank Stadium, highlighting plans to bring the draft to the Twin Cities.

The NFL Draft has grown into a major national event, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans to host cities each year. The report has not yet been officially confirmed by the NFL, and Northern News Now is working to independently verify the information.

Click here to download the Northern News Now app or our Northern News Now First Alert weather app.