The NFL draft has broken attendance records in downtown Detroit with over 700,000 fans flocking to the city over the three-day event. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the news during the final day of the draft at Campus Martius Park.
This year's draft, covering selections from the fourth to seventh rounds, showcased Detroit's ability to host a massive crowd and exhibit the city's transformation to over 50 million viewers.
Detroit surpassed Nashville's previous record of 600,000 attendees set in 2019. The city attracted a record 275,000 fans on the first day and reached 550,000 by the second day, surpassing Nashville's previous attendance records.
The NFL did not charge fans for attending the event, but the influx of visitors and local residents is expected to generate over $160 million in economic impact for Detroit. Hotels, bars, restaurants, and retail stores in downtown Detroit saw a surge in business during the draft.
Former Lions running back Billy Sims capitalized on the event by selling barbecue from his restaurant along Woodward Avenue, expressing his delight at the positive impact the draft had on Michigan.
The NFL is currently in discussions with more than 20 teams interested in hosting future drafts. Colder-climate cities, which may not be able to secure a Super Bowl bid, are particularly keen on hosting the draft as it brings significant economic benefits and showcases the city on a national stage.
