Fans around the world eagerly ask every spring, “what time is the nfl draft?” Being an event that the American sports world so eagerly awaits, the NFL Draft serves not only as a venue to help forge the future of franchises but also as the domain of millions of witnesses’ imagination. Seeing that numerous picks, trades, and surprises can take place, it is essential to know when the NFL Draft will start if you are in the U.S., India, or anywhere else. Consider this guide as your insider’s manual to consider everything, such as the 2025 NFL Draft start times across time zones, how to watch it, and what emphasizes why Thursday night is such an important occasion.
What Is the NFL Draft?
Before we dive into the question of what time the NFL Draft starts, let’s first understand what the term “NFL Draft” actually means. Every year, NFL teams actively select eligible college players to join the league during this highly anticipated event. The draft usually comprises seven rounds over three days, the teams taking turns to select players in a pre-determined order.
In 2025, the NFL Draft will be just as exciting, with the top college prospects, intense speculation, and blockbuster trades.
What Time Is the NFL Draft 2025?
Hence, the NFL Draft over the period from Thursday, April 24 to Saturday, April 26, 2025, will consist of the following events:
- Round 1: Thursday, April 24, 2025
- Rounds 2–3: Friday, April 25, 2025
- Rounds 4–7: Saturday, April 26, 2025
- Hence, what does the NFL Draft start each day time-wise?
- Official Start Times (U.S. Eastern Time)
- Day 1 (Round 1): 8:00 PM ET
- Day 2 (Rounds 2–3): 7:00 PM ET
- Day 3 (Rounds 4–7): 12:00 PM ET
What Time Is the NFL Draft in India?
If you are in India and wondering what time is the NFL Draft, this is the time schedule in local time (Indian Standard Time – IST):
- Day 1 (Round 1): Friday, April 25 at 5:30 A.M. IST
- Day 2 (Rounds 2–3): Saturday, April 26 at 4:30 A.M. IST
- Day 3 (Rounds 4–7): Saturday, April 26 at 9:30 P.M. IST
Make sure to mark your calendar so you don’t miss anything—especially if you’re closely following the top prospects or your favorite team’s picks.
Where Is the 2025 NFL Draft Being Held?
The Winter Classic will be held in Green Bay, Wisconsin, headquarters of the iconic Green Bay Packers. The broadly outdoors event will attract thousands of fans in person with many more joining in online and on television.
How to Watch the NFL Draft Live?
Now that you know the time of the NFL Draft, the next question will be on how to watch it. The NFL Draft will be aired live over multiple channels or platforms:
In the U.S.
- TV Channels: ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network
- Streaming Services: ESPN+, YouTube TV, Hulu Live, and NFL App
In India
- Though Indian sports channels may not telecast it live, fans can always rely on streaming the NFL Draft online on
- NFL Game Pass International (subscription required)
- ESPN App or Website (subject to availability)
- VPN access to U.S. streams (check for legality and service terms)
If you are in India, knowing which time the NFL Draft will occur helps you plan your early morning or late-night viewing experience.
Why Does the NFL Draft Matter?
The NFL Draft is more than just a sports event; it is a spectacle. Teams rebuild, fans rejoice to the point of despair, and analysts debate endlessly. And so, here is why it matters:
- Franchise Impact: A good draft pick can change a team’s future.
- Engaging for Fans: It keeps its fans engaged during the offseason.
- Global Appeal: From the U.S.A. to India, interest in the NFL continues to grow.
- Entertainment Value: The trades, surprises, and emotional stories all make for compelling TV.
Following American football may seem niche for Indian fans, but its prominence is slowly building. Getting to know about the NFL Draft’s time allows you to be a part of the loud global banter.
2025 Top Prospects to Watch
This year, we have in store for us some highly anticipated college players. Eyes on:
- Caleb Williams (QB for USC)
- Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR, Ohio State)
- Brock Bowers (TE, Georgia)
Their selection throughout Day 1 is always more anticipated. Remember, NFL Draft time becomes even more significant for you in case you want to catch them live. click here
Tips for Viewing the NFL Draft from India
If you’re in India and excited about the NFL Draft, try these suggestions to enhance your experience:
- Employ a Trustworthy VPN Service: This will allow you to get access to U.S. broadcast or streaming services unavailable in your territory.
- Prepare to Wake Up Early: This especially goes for Day 1 and 2.
- Watch Out for NFL Social Media: As these channels will provide you with instant updates, highlights, and fan reactions.
- Watch the Recaps: If you do miss the live event, then YouTube and NFL.com have excellent recap videos.
Become a Member of NFL Fan Communities in India: Subreddits, Discord channels, and local groups all make the experience enjoyable.
To sum it all up, if you are already asking, “What time is the NFL Draft?”, well, you are already halfway through in tasting one of the most electrifying sports events of the year. The ultimate live-streaming experiences that bring anyone watching from the U.S., India, or any other place closer to football culture.
So keep these dates in mind:
- April 24–26, 2025
- 8:00 PM ET (5:30 AM IST) – Day 1
- 7:00 PM ET (4:30 AM IST) – Day 2
- 12:00 PM ET (9:30 PM IST) – Day 3
Get your alarms set, snacks prepped, and be ready to bask in the beauty, drama, and excitement of the 2025 NFL Draft.
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