Every year, millions of football enthusiasts anticipate an event that ranks among the largest in sports history — the NFL Draft. It is the occasion when college stars transition from schools to professional athletes, and franchises hope to identify their next game-changing superstar.
But one question always comes, “What time does the NFL Draft start?”
If you are wondering when the NFL Draft starts or the timings of each round, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will give round-by-round start times, broadcast details, and how to watch.
Let’s get started!
What is the NFL Draft?
The annual NFL Draft is an event where every one of the 32 NFL teams selects college football players eligible to be added to their team. The selection is much more than merely the selection of players; it is the heart of team-building activity, and it fully encompasses the NFL offseason.
The draft lasts three days, spanning seven rounds and nearly 260 picks in total. Each team picks players depending on the reverse order of finish from the previous season. The team that finished with the worst record picks first, and the team that played in the Super Bowl picks last.
NFL Draft 2025 Overview
Here is the complete overview of the NFL Draft 2025.
- Event: NFL Draft 2025
- Dates: April 24-26, 2025
- Location: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
- Rounds: 7 rounds over 3 days
- Teams: 32
- Broadcast: ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network
The NFL draft is split into three days to give fans, teams, and players a chance to experience the excitement at every stage of the draft. The three-day draft will see 257 picks from 32 teams. Have a look at the 10 players who have the potential to improve their NFL Draft rankings.
What Time Does Round 1 of the NFL Draft Start?
What time does the NFL draft start? Well, round 1 of the NFL draft begins Thursday on April 24, at 5:00 pm Pacific Time. It is the main attraction of the whole event. It is the time when select top college players step into the limelight in the NFL.
- Start Time: 5:00 PM Pacific Time
- Date: April 24, 2025
- Coverage: ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network
This is going to be a prime-time event, and the teams will have 10 minutes per pick. The ceremony will start with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, and he will announce the first selection.
It’s going to be a night full of surprises and emotional moments for many players and their families.
What Time Does Round 2 of the NFL Draft Start?
What time does day two of the NFL Draft start? Well, the day two proceedings will start the following night. It is going to be a fast-paced affair. Day two will feature rounds 2 and 3, and it will begin at 3:00 PM PT on Friday, April 25.
- NFL Round 2 Start Time: 3:00 PM Pacific Time
- Date: April 25, 2025
- Round Covered: Rounds 2 and 3
Despite being a fast-paced day, the rounds still feature many big names. Many teams find a lot of hidden gems in the second and third rounds. In round 2, each team gets 7 minutes per pick. In round 3, each team will get 5 minutes per pick.
Fun Fact: Some of the NFL’s biggest stars, Derrick Henry and Travis Kelce, were Day 2 picks.
When Does Day 3 of the NFL Draft Start?
Day 3 of the NFL draft covers the final stretch of the rounds – from 4 to 7. This is the time when depth players and developmental prospects are selected. However, history has shown us that some late picks have also become legends.
- NFL Draft Start Time Day 3: 9:00 AM Pacific Time
- Date: April 26, 2025
- Rounds Covered: 4-7
NFL draft day 3 starts with the fourth round. On this day, the teams get 5 minutes per selection, so the process of the draft moves quickly. Yes, the top picks may be gone from the drafting, but day 3 is still exciting. It often gives us the next generation of hardworking players who become key contributors for each team.
Related Read: NFL Teams Mocked George Pickens Trade Idea During the Draft
How to Watch the NFL Draft 2025 Live
To watch the NFL draft, you have multiple options. You can catch every pick and announcement on TV or streaming.
Here is the list of broadcasting channels available for you.
Television Broadcasts:
Streaming Options:
- ESPN+
- NFL Network Online
- ABC online streaming in the app
What Happens on Each Draft Day?
Now that you know “What time does the NFL draft start?” Let’s look at what happens on each draft day.
Each draft day has its own purpose, and fans should know about it. Have a look.
Day 1 – The Stars Arrive
- Only 1 round on day 1
- Focus on franchise quarterbacks, wide receivers, and elite defenders
- Big crowds, player suits, and dramatic TV moments
Day 2 – Strategy and Steals
- Round 2 and Round 3 on day 2
- Teams target players to fill the depth roles
- Day 2 players become superstars in the coming years.
Day 3 – Depth and Development
- From round 4 to round 7 on day 3
- Faster pace draft day, less TV hype, but value picks
- Day 3 has given us many underdogs who became NFL mainstays
Tips for Fans to Watch the NFL Draft
Now that the start time of the NFL draft is locked for you, here are some tips to adhere to. These tips will help you make the most of your NFL draft day weekend.
- Follow teams on social media to get instant updates.
- You can use live Draft trackers on websites like ESPN or nfl.com.
- You can also join fan forums or subreddits for real-time discussion.
- Don’t skip day 3, because it is full of future breakout players.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Draft will once again provide the thrill of anticipation, an endless deal of strategies, and some emotional stories to millions of fans all over the globe. Whether you are tuning in to see who will be selected first overall or staying up late to see this year’s late round prospects live out their dreams, now you know when all the fun will be taking place, so you do not miss anything.
So, what time does the NFL draft start? Mark your calendars and be ready for rounds 1 to 7 from April 24, 2025, to April 26, 2025.
No matter which team you are supporting, the NFL draft weekend will surely help you celebrate the future of football.
FAQs
1. What time does the NFL Draft start?
Ans: The NFL Draft typically starts at 5:00 PM Pacific Time on Thursday for Round 1.
2. What time will day 2 of the NFL draft start?
Ans: Day 2 of the NFL draft will start at 3:00 PM Pacific Time on Friday.
3. What time does Day 3 of the NFL Draft start?
Ans: Day 3 kicks off Saturday at 9:00 AM Pacific time for Rounds 4–7.
4. How can I watch the NFL Draft for free?
Ans: You can stream it on ABC (over the air), ESPN, and on the NFL Network.
