The 2028 NFL Draft could land in Minnesota’s backyard

Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images

The 2028 NFL Draft could land in Minnesota’s backyard

Originally posted on HITC | By Filipe Guedes | Last updated May 19, 2026 9:26 AM ET

ESPN reports that the Minnesota Vikings could soon have another major NFL event coming to their doorstep, with Minneapolis expected to be awarded the 2028 NFL Draft.

The decision is expected to become official through an ownership vote, putting the Twin Cities in line to host one of the league’s biggest travelling events.

For the Vikings, it would bring the draft to the area around U.S. Bank Stadium, adding another high-profile moment to a venue that has already hosted major football events.

The Minnesota Vikings could be preparing for NFL Draft on location

Photo by David Berding/Getty Images

The local plan is centred on Minneapolis, with U.S. Bank Stadium positioned as the anchor point for the event and surrounding areas expected to support fan activities.

That matters because the modern draft is no longer only a televised selection show. It has become a large public event built around outdoor stages, fan zones and city-wide programming.

Pittsburgh hosted the 2026 NFL Draft, while Washington, D.C. has already been awarded the 2027 event.

If Minneapolis is confirmed for 2028, it would continue the NFL’s pattern of moving the draft across different markets rather than keeping it fixed in one location.

For the Vikings, the draft would not affect the team on the field immediately. But it would put the franchise, stadium and fanbase at the centre of the NFL calendar.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: