Overall, the 2020 Virtual NFL Draft appeared to be more relaxed as owners, coaches, and club executives worked alone or with family beside them. The production aspect worked smoothly and the virtual booing of the NFL Commissioner had charm. Here are a few highlights that caught my attention.
Draft-A-Thon Fundraiser
Celebrities and athletes such as Rich Eisen, Kevin Hart, Lil Wayne, Deion Sanders, Michael Vick and more helped raise close to $4 million for COVID-19 relief. Donations are still being accepted via the Draft-A-Thon website.
Las Vegas Will Host NFL Draft 2022
Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the NFL will be recommitting to Las Vegas for the 87th annual NFL Draft in 2022. This comes after the 2020 public Draft events in Las Vegas were cancelled due to COVID-19. The extravagant plans remain in place for the Draft Red Carpet, which include prospects ferried to and from the stage via boat on the Fountains of Bellagio.
Offensive Linemen Top 15 Picks
2020 is the third NFL draft since 2000 to feature at least four offensive linemen selected in the top 15. Mekhi Becton (New York Jets), Andrew Thomas ( New York Giants), Jedrick Wills (Cleveland Browns) and Tristan Wirfs (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) entered the league historically. In 2013 six picks were selected in top 15, and 2008 draft had four.
Draft Day Dance
On draft day players would normally walk across the stage to give NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell a handshake and/or bear hug. Due to social distancing practices, WR Jerry Jeudy (Denver Broncos) got creative and asked the commissioner for a virtual dance-off. The “Toosie Slide” by Drake is the hottest dance craze out now and watching these two is the yin and yang we never knew existed?. Jerry Jeudy Draft Dance
Draft Family Celebration Challenge
If we had an NFL Draft Family challenge for the best celebration, Javon Kinlaw (SF 49ers) family would win?. After the announcement of Javon being selected as 14th pick, cameras were steady rolling as his father gave a reaction befitting for the moment. At least he kept his emotions physically real. Javon Kinlaw Draft Day Family Celebration
