Minnesota Selected to Host the 2028 NFL Draft at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis
The NFL has announced that Minnesota will host the 2028 NFL Draft, anchored around U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis in partnership with the Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Sports and Events and local community partners, continuing the state's growing reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events.
Minneapolis is about to become the center of the football world.
The NFL announced Monday that Minnesota has been selected to host the 2028 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light, bringing one of the biggest events in sports to downtown Minneapolis in partnership with Minnesota Sports and Events, the Minnesota Vikings, U.S. Bank Stadium, and local community partners.
What to Expect
The three-day event will be anchored around U.S. Bank Stadium and is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of fans to the Twin Cities. Programming will include the NFL Draft Theater, the NFL Draft Experience presented by Bud Light, the league’s free fan festival, live entertainment, community events, concerts, youth programming, and a wide range of activations throughout the region.
“For three days, Minnesota will become the center of the football world,” said Mark Wilf, owner and president of the Minnesota Vikings and honorary co-chair of the 2028 NFL Draft Local Organizing Committee. “The 2028 NFL Draft will give us an opportunity to showcase not just U.S. Bank Stadium, but the energy, hospitality and pride that define Minneapolis-St. Paul and the entire state and region.”
Minnesota’s Track Record
The selection continues Minnesota’s growing reputation as one of the country’s premier destinations for major sporting and entertainment events. Since 2018, major events hosted in the state have generated more than $800 million in economic impact, including Super Bowl LII, which produced more than $450 million in total economic activity. Most recently, the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship generated $71.5 million in economic impact while attracting more than 247,000 attendees from around the world.
The Draft by the Numbers
The NFL Draft has evolved into one of the league’s most high-profile events since moving to a rotating host city model in 2015. The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh drew a record-setting 805,000 fans over three days, while more than 13 million viewers tuned in for Round 1 broadcasts nationally. Economic impact from the Draft has exceeded $200 million in some host cities.
What They’re Saying
“Minnesota knows how to show up for big moments,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “This is a market that delivers at the highest level.”
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey welcomed the announcement with characteristic directness. “We know how to throw a party in Minneapolis, and the 2028 NFL Draft is going to be no exception,” he said. “From our restaurants and music scene to our world-class parks, lakes, and diehard football fans, this is going to be an unforgettable weekend for our city.”
What Comes Next
The 2027 NFL Draft will take place in Washington, D.C., before the event heads to Minneapolis in 2028.
Additional details on dates, programming, volunteer opportunities, and community engagement will be announced in the months ahead.