What time does NFL draft start: Estimated time of every team's first-round pick
The 2026 Draft has arrived, and the scene is set in Pittsburgh. Below is an estimated schedule for when your favorite team will make its first-round picks.
Pittsburgh is buzzing with excitement as fans gather to witness football’s next generation take center stage at the 2026 NFL Draft . The time allotted for each first-round pick has been reduced by two minutes this year – from 10 to eight. The shortened window is likely to speed up the first round and force teams to move swiftly.
This marks the first adjustment to the selection clock since 2008, when it was reduced from 15 to 10 minutes. The timing for the later rounds remains unchanged. Teams will have seven minutes per pick in the second round and five minutes per selection in rounds three through seven.
This continuity allows teams some breathing room as the draft progresses, but the pressure will still be on to make strategic decisions quickly. Here is the first round 2026 NFL Draft order, and we went one step further by giving the estimated time teams will be on the clock for their first-round pick on Thursday in Pittsburgh. More: When does the 2026 NFL season start?
What to know about schedule release How to watch 2026 NFL Draft The 2026 NFL Draft will begin on Thursday, April 23, with the first round starting at 8 p. m. ET.