NFL says digital draft set viewership record

Round one of the NFL draft was the most watched first night in league history, the NFL said on Friday, shattering the previous record set in 2014. 

The league said that more than 15.6 million viewers tuned in for the event, which was broadcast from the living rooms and offices of players and NFL officials amid the coronavirus pandemic. The draft will continue in the same format on Friday and Saturday.

The viewership for the Thursday night draft event, broadcast on ESPN, ABC and NFL channels, was 26 percent higher than the previous record of 12.4 million set in 2014 and 37 percent higher than the 11.4 million viewers that tuned in to the first night of last year’s draft. 

“The theme of hope is always prevalent in the NFL, especially with regard to the Draft,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. “In 2020, that’s especially true, as we help honor healthcare workers, first responders, and others on the front lines of the battle with COVID-19 while giving our fans something to cheer about as we celebrate the next generation of NFL stars. We are thrilled so many people were able to join us last night and we thank them for helping support the Draft-A-Thon.”

The coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on the sports world in recent weeks, forcing leagues including the MLB and NBA to either suspend or postpone their seasons. The NFL, which is set to begin its season in September, has yet to have its schedule altered by the outbreak.