ESPN’s top draft analyst Mel Kiper won’t attend the 2022 NFL draft in Las Vegas, instead logging into the broadcast from his home in Maryland. Kiper is unable to attend because he has not received the COVID-19 vaccine.
ESPN requires its on-site employees get the COVID-19 vaccine and the NFL mandates that on-site reporters also get the jab. Kiper addressed his absence from the event in a Twitter announcement on April 18.
“I completely support everyone determining what’s best for their individual circumstance and recognize the value of vaccines,” Kiper said in the statement. “Simply put, my Covid vaccination decision is very specific to my own personal medical history. I appreciate my colleagues, particularly the production staff and my fellow commentators, for their support and flexibility. NFL fans are the most passionate in all of sports and I can’t wait for another great NFL Draft.”
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I am looking forward to being part of the 2022 NFL Draft, my 39th for ESPN pic.twitter.com/C5ea9NjdqK
— Mel Kiper Jr. (@MelKiperESPN) April 18, 2022
Kiper has been a part of ESPN’s draft coverage since 1984 and is one of the network’s biggest personalities — especially at this time of year. It’s the second year in a row where the network will be without a top talent for their draft coverage after Todd McShay missed the 2021 NFL draft after contracting COVID-19.
