CLEVELAND, Ohio — On the final day of a two-day virtual NFL Annual League meeting Wednesday, Browns owner Jimmy Haslam addressed the full ownership to address the excitement building over the NFL Draft coming to Cleveland April 29-May 1.
“He was noticeably excited to talk about how great the draft is going to be,’’ NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy told cleveland.com. “He said ‘you can see and feel the excitement building in Cleveland.’ He talked about what a great opportunity it is to showcase how important football is to Ohio, and how the city of Cleveland will be a great backdrop to the draft.’’
McCarthy said Haslam was also effusive in his praise of Mayor Frank Jackson and Governor Mike DeWine for their efforts on this monumental event.
Haslam’s remarks followed a presentation by Peter O’Reilly, NFL Executive Vice President, Club Business & League Events, heralding the event.
“He showcased a number of renderings and also addressed the excitement that’s building,’’ McCarthy said. “He mentioned the cooperation of the Haslams, the Browns, the city of Cleveland and also David Gilbert (President and CEO of the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission) and how everyone is looking forward to putting on a safe and efficient draft. He noted that it will blend the power of a live and in-person event with special and innovative virtual draft moments, while also showcasing the city of Cleveland.’’
In regards to attendance, McCarthy said “we’re still working on details with local and state officials. That includes capacity for the dedicated viewing zone specifically for vaccinated fans in an area with a view of the stage. We anticipate there will be tens of thousands of fans who will go through NFL Draft Experience. There will be live draft viewing on screens throughout. Fans will also be able to participate in immersive exhibits and activities, including kicking a field goal in [FirstEnergy] Stadium.’’
Earlier in the day, Gilbert conducted a conference call for about 300 members of Cleveland’s hospitality community, describing the event as “a slingshot opportunity for us to get that swagger back. … It’s going to put Cleveland at the very top-of-mind as a place to go.”
Details emerge about the NFL Draft in Cleveland
Joining him on the call was Aubrey Walton, director of event location strategy and planning for the NFL, who provided a few more details about the three-day event, including that the NFL is expecting about 20 top prospects to attend in person. Another 40-50, including presumptive No. 1 pick Trevor Lawrence of Clemson, will be featured virtually from their homes or universities.
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