Exploring the Future: Will NFL Draft Betting See More Growth?

The Surge of NFL Draft Betting: A New Trend on the Rise

As the 2020 NFL Draft wrapped up, it not only shattered viewership records with a whopping 15.6 million viewers tuning in across three networks, but it also highlighted a burgeoning trend in the sports betting world. With the NFL’s ever-growing popularity and the unique circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic leaving sports fans craving live events, NFL Draft betting witnessed unprecedented enthusiasm. This surge begs the question: Will this trend continue to ascend?

The NFL Draft has become an increasingly popular betting event, with sportsbooks offering a wide range of prop bets including first overall pick, top 5 picks, and position-specific draft outcomes, reflecting growing bettor interest and market sophistication as seen in the 2025 NFL Draft betting markets.

The state of Nevada, having permitted betting odds on the NFL Draft for just the third year, saw a significant uptick in betting activity. The limitations imposed by the pandemic, sidelining major leagues like MLB, NBA, and NHL, naturally funneled more attention and betting action towards the draft. According to Nick Bogdanovich, William Hill’s director of trading, the handle for the draft was about five times larger than in previous years, likening it to the betting activity of a Thursday Night Football game.

Adapting to the New Norm: Sportsbooks Dive Deeper into Draft Betting

Previously, sportsbooks like William Hill would offer a modest number of props on the NFL Draft, focusing the bulk of their efforts on the major sports leagues in full swing. However, the landscape drastically changed this year, with William Hill offering an impressive 104 props by the end of the draft weekend. This shift reflects not only the unique circumstances of the current sports world but also a potential change in how sportsbooks and bettors view the draft.

Despite the competition from other sports in future seasons, Bogdanovich remains optimistic about the sustained popularity of NFL Draft betting. He cites the deep-rooted love and interest fans have for the draft, suggesting that the betting handle could remain robust or even grow. Yet, the profitability of such extensive betting offerings remains a concern, with sportsbooks experiencing mixed results in terms of wins and losses during this year’s draft.

The Future of NFL Draft Betting

With the 2021 NFL Draft set to take place in Cleveland, the sports betting world is abuzz with speculation about the future of draft betting. Will sportsbooks continue to expand their betting options? Can the momentum of this year’s draft betting surge be maintained or even surpassed?

Jeff Davis, the sportsbook director at Caesars Palace, noted that their losses during the draft were largely due to the savvy betting of their clientele, indicating a high level of engagement and expertise among draft bettors. Conversely, Circa Sports, participating in their first NFL Draft, emerged as a small winner. Their success hinged on strategic bets, including a significant win from the Chiefs’ last pick in the first round, which influenced multiple props in their favor.

Beyond the immediate financial outcomes for sportsbooks, the broader implications for the sports betting industry are profound. The enthusiasm for NFL Draft betting signals a potential shift in how major sporting events, beyond the games themselves, are viewed and engaged with by bettors.

Moreover, the anticipation surrounding future drafts, particularly with prospects like Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence, continues to stoke the flames of interest. Sportsbooks are already offering odds on next year’s draft picks and awards, further cementing the NFL Draft as a pivotal event in the sports betting calendar.

As we look back on the 2020 NFL Draft, its impact extends beyond just the picks and the immediate betting outcomes. It showcased the adaptability of sportsbooks and bettors alike, the enduring appeal of the NFL, and the potential for draft betting to become a staple in the sports betting landscape. As the world of sports continues to evolve, the rise of NFL Draft betting stands as a testament to the unyielding passion and adaptability of sports fans and bettors alike.