CLEVELAND, Ohio - The National Football League announced Wednesday that Cleveland will host the 2021 NFL Draft.
The announcement was made at the annual Spring League Meeting.
"Cleveland has a passionate fan base and the city offers distinctive iconic locations and attractions that will bring the NFL Draft experience to fans in unique and exciting ways," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "We look forward to collaborating with the Cleveland Browns, the City of Cleveland, Greater Cleveland Sports Commission and Destination Cleveland to celebrate the achievements of the next generation of players and create a memorable fan experience."
"Cleveland is honored to be selected as the host city for the 2021 NFL Draft and we are excited to once again show the world that this city can set a standard for hosting some of the world's largest events," said David Gilbert, President and CEO of Greater Cleveland Sports Commission. "This event will provide international media exposure and has proven to provide more than $100 million in economic impact to the host city. We look forward to showing NFL fans across the nation how Cleveland throws a party. Being awarded the 2021 NFL Draft wouldn't have been possible without the unwavering commitment of the Cleveland Browns, the support of the City of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County, the State of Ohio and so many others who helped make this a reality. As Cleveland continues to shine in the national spotlight with the unique opportunity to host four major sporting events over the next six years, including the Draft, we are proud of this achievement which few destinations are able to accomplish."
The 2019 Draft drew more than 600,000 fans to Nashville this April over the three days of the event. The city said today the Draft brought in a record $133 million in direct spending.
The league also announced that Las Vegas will host the 2020 edition of the NFL Draft and Kansas City will host the 2023 Draft. The owners could not come to a decision on the location of the 2022 Draft.