2025 NFL Draft draws second-largest audience in event history
The 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay captivated football fans nationwide, drawing an average audience of 7.5 million viewers across ESPN, ABC, NFL Network, and digital platforms over three days—the second-most-watched Draft ever, trailing only the pandemic-influenced 2020 event. Viewership surged +27% compared to 2024, highlighting sustained growth in fan engagement.
Day 1: Primetime Power
Thursday’s Round 1 coverage averaged 13.6 million viewers, a +11% jump from 2024 and the second-highest Day 1 turnout on record. Marquee picks, including Shedeur Sanders (Browns) and James Pearce Jr. (Jets), fueled primetime excitement.
Day 2 Surge
Rounds 2-3 on Friday drew 7.5 million viewers, marking a +48% year-over-year spike and becoming the second-most-watched Day 2 in Draft history. Teams like the Cowboys (DE Bralen Trice) and Lions (CB Maxwell Hairston) stole the spotlight with value picks.
Historic Day 3
Saturday’s Rounds 4-7 averaged 4.3 million viewers, a +43% increase and the most-watched Day 3 ever. Late-round gems, such as RB Dylan Edwards (49ers) and WR Ricky Pearsall (Patriots), kept fans engaged.
Fan Frenzy in Green Bay
Over 600,000 attendees flooded Green Bay, tying Nashville’s 2019 record for the second-largest Draft crowd ever. The event’s lakeside setup and interactive exhibits amplified its festive atmosphere.
Multi-Network Momentum
For the seventh consecutive year, Disney (ESPN/ABC) and NFL Network collaborated on coverage, delivering all seven rounds across platforms. This partnership continues to drive accessibility and engagement, solidifying the Draft as a cornerstone of offseason football culture.
