Cleveland Rocks.
Or, it will from April 29 through May 1.
That’s when the 2021 NFL Draft will return in a scaled-down version of its pre-COVID-19 glitzy form, with a select unspecified number of prospects, fans and media in attendance, the league announced Monday. Teams will designate a number of fans, who must be vaccinated and wear masks to get front-row seats.
The 2020 NFL Draft was a hit even though it was held virtually. It humanized coaches – remember Bill Belichick’s dog sitting at his laptop? – and executives by giving a glance into their family lives and at-home setups.
While some elements will be carried over, the NFL is allowing team personnel involved in the selection process to gather together in the traditional draft room at headquarters, or elsewhere as long as safety protocols are followed.
Additionally, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will be in Cleveland announcing picks from the stage, so “bring the boos,” NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy wrote in jest on Twitter.
Roger Goodell announces a pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Getty Images“We are thrilled to be heading to Cleveland for the NFL Draft, which has become one of the most highly anticipated events in sports,” NFL executive vice president Peter O’Reilly said in a statement. “Just months after executing a safe and successful Super Bowl LV, we look forward to bringing the excitement of our Draft traditions to fans in collaboration with the Browns, Destination Cleveland, Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, the City of Cleveland, and all of our local Cleveland partners.”
Cleveland locations that will be part of the draft setup include FirstEnergy Stadium, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center.
“We want to maximize the number of events that can be part of this free outdoor event safely,” O’Reilly told reporters later on a conference call.
