NFL Eyes Minnesota for 2028 Draft, Cincinnati for 2029

The NFL is poised to award the 2028 draft to Minnesota, with Cincinnati emerging as the frontrunner for 2029, as league officials evaluate bids amid the event's growing scale.

Minnesota has positioned itself as the clear favorite for the 2028 event, according to league sources. Organizers submitted a detailed proposal in March, centering the three-day draft at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Supporting activities would span nearby sites, including St. Paul, the Mall of America, and the Vikings' headquarters development in Eagan. This multi-venue approach aligns with the NFL's preference for hosts capable of accommodating large crowds and diverse fan experiences. The league's events committee plans to meet soon, with owners expected to vote during their May 19-20 gathering in Orlando.

For 2029, Cincinnati holds an early advantage, though no commitments have been made. The Ohio city, which has never hosted the draft, is leveraging its infrastructure near the Kentucky border. Officials anticipate a decision on that year further out, potentially aligning with the 2028 selection process.

The developments follow the 2025 draft in Pittsburgh, which drew a record 805,000 attendees over...