In 2027, the NFL Draft, an event where professional football teams choose new players, is heading to Washington, D.C. But you don’t have to be a football fan to care. This is going to be one of the biggest events the city has ever seen, and it’s set to transform the National Mall into a mega festival ground.
First renders of the 2027 NFL Draft
Renderings released by the NFL and Washington Commanders show a surreal transformation of the National Mall. Picture this: towers of light shooting into the night sky, massive viewing screens, stages, and hundreds of thousands of fans.
The visuals sparked controversy online, with some comparing the layout to authoritarian-era architecture. But one thing’s certain—this will not look like your usual D.C. spring weekend.
One of the world’s most exciting sporting events
The NFL says it expects 1 million people to attend the three-day event. That’s more than the population of D.C. itself. The 2024 Draft in Detroit drew a record 775,000. Green Bay followed up with over 600,000 in 2025. D.C. is about to top that.
Local agencies are already planning major public transit boosts, street closures, and security protocols to manage the influx. Pennsylvania Avenue and other landmarks will also host “Draft Experience” zones, concerts, and pop-ups.
2027 NFL Draft, the first-ever in D.C.
Announced in the Oval Office by President Donald Trump alongside Mayor Muriel Bowser and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, this draft is part of a broader plan to reposition D.C. as a destination for global events.
It’s also tied to plans for a new $3.7 billion stadium at the RFK site—intended to bring football culture back to the District in a big way.
Whether you’re into football or not, the 2027 NFL Draft will affect life in the city. Expect major crowd control, tourism spikes, and changes in your daily commute, especially if you live near the National Mall. The city promises jobs, revenue, and a cultural showcase. Time will tell.