The NFL Draft is an event where the 32 teams of the National Football League pick their newest players from the latest generation of college football prodigies. This will be the 89th annual meeting of the league’s franchises.
This class’ top picks were Caleb Williams (QB, University of Southern California), Jayden Daniels (QB, Louisiana State University), and Drake Maye (QB, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill), drafted by the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and New England Patriots, respectively, on Thursday night.
The ceremony took place in Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza of the downtown area and ran through from noon of April 25 to 6 p.m. of April 27. However, fans could find draft-themed attractions and events in the area before and after that. The NFL shop, for example, opened for business on April 20 at 10 a.m. and it ran for four days before opening again April 25.
But the best part is yet to come! The event was completely open to the public. A free entry was the reward for everybody who signed up for the NFL OnePass app.
And not only that, so much was free! That included the NFL Draft Experience, which featured immersive exhibitions, such as 40-Yard Dash, Vertical Jump, Hail Mary, Field Goal Challenge, Gear Up and Go, and many more attractions!
“There were lots of activities related to football: We could get the players’ autographs, see their rings and trophies, take pictures next to all types of statues, including giant helmets of every single team in the league. And Big Sean performed some songs there as well. It was super cool!” sophomore Nicole Pagani, who attended the event on April 25, said.
“We even got to meet Derrick Barnes, and he was super nice! There were several things to do. We saw the SuperBowl trophy, helmets from lots of teams, and much more. I loved every minute of this experience, and so did our son.” Caroline and Reinaldo Carvalho added.
As the 2024 NFL Draft wrapped up in Detroit, the city was buzzing with excitement for the upcoming season. Teams made their picks, fans cheered on their favorites, and the stage was set for an epic season ahead. Let the games begin!
