How Much Time Is Between Each NFL Draft Pick?

As the NFL Draft transitions from Day 1 through Day 3, there are several subtle differences that you may notice as the picks progress. We’re here to answer how much time is between each NFL Draft pick and what happens if a team doesn’t get its selection in on time.

How Much Time Is Between Each NFL Draft Pick?

There is a set amount of time between each NFL Draft pick, depending on the round. The first round, which features 32 draft picks barring any forfeited picks, has a 10-minute time limit.

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On Day 2, which features the second and third rounds of picks, teams have five minutes between picks. There are also only 32 picks in the second round, but the third round varies because teams are awarded compensatory picks for a variety of reasons.

Finally, Day 3 has the final four rounds of selections. Rounds 4 through 6 offer teams another five-minute clock. In Round 7, teams only have four minutes to submit their selection.

Has Any NFL Team Missed Their Draft Pick?

The most famous example of a team failing to get their selection in on time was in 2003, when the Minnesota Vikings failed to get a trade done with the seventh overall pick. Although the Vikings were still able to submit their pick at any point, the Jacksonville Jaguars and Carolina Panthers quickly drafted players while the Vikings were getting their bearings straight.

The Vikings ended up picking defensive tackle Kevin Williams ninth overall. The Jaguars selected quarterback Byron Leftwich, and the Panthers took offensive tackle Jordan Gross.