Two independent post-event analyses conducted by nationally recognized firms Sportsimpacts and Trajektory evaluated the economic impact and economic value for the region — two “distinct but complementary” measures for the Draft’s success. “The NFL Draft created two extraordinary legacies for Pittsburgh,” Jerad Bachar, president and CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH, says in a statement. According to Sportsimpacts, the 2026 NFL Draft generated $177 million in economic impact throughout the Pittsburgh region, fueled by record attendance, visitor spending, overnight stays and related economic activity. The firm analyzed five channels of exposure: broadcast television, public relations coverage, owned social media, earned social media and in-venue media exposure. “Together with VisitPITTSBURGH, the Pittsburgh Steelers and civic leaders, we celebrated the future of the NFL while showcasing Pittsburgh’s energy and hospitality on the world stage.”