PITTSBURGH — Days after Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro expressed his support for the idea, the PA Chamber joined the effort to entice the National Football League to hold a future NFL Draft in Pittsburgh in 2026 or 2027.
In a statement Tuesday, Shapiro called the Steel City "the birthplace of professional football" and said it would be the perfect place to host a future draft weekend.
The chance to host the festivities would be a boon to Pennsylvania's tourism industry, he added.
“Tourism is one of the largest and most important industries in Pennsylvania, generating over $76 billion a year and supporting more than 486,000 jobs across the Commonwealth,” Shapiro said in a letter to the NFL posted on his website.
On Thursday, PA Chamber President added his own support for the idea in a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, voicing the statewide business community's "enthusiastic support" for Pittsburgh's bid to host the NFL Draft.
In the letter, Bernstein emphasized the city's rich football history, innovative spirit, accessible public infrastructure, and passionate fan base as compelling reasons for selecting Pittsburgh as the host location for the NFL Draft.
He highlighted the region's legacy of producing iconic football figures and described Pittsburgh as an ideal setting to launch the careers of future NFL stars.
Bernstein noted Pittsburgh's resilience and commitment to progress as exemplified by its transformation from a steel powerhouse to a hub of innovation.
"Pittsburgh perfectly represents our indomitable will to do great things," Bernstein said. "Success in business, like success on the gridiron, requires grit, resolve, and the willingness to work together–qualities embedded in the people of western Pennsylvania."
The letter also emphasized the unique opportunity to engage with young people and inspire the next generation of athletes by showcasing the event in a city with a deep-rooted football tradition. Bernstein expressed confidence that hosting the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh would have a lasting positive impact on the region, including economic growth, job creation, and increased investment.
"We ask that you strongly consider Pittsburgh's bid to host the NFL Draft," Bernstein stated in conclusion. "Beyond celebrating its unparalleled football legacy, hosting the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh would help create a lasting impression for future generations of fans and aspiring athletes."
