PITTSBURGH, PA — Federal security resources for the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh could increase under a request from U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, who is urging the Department of Homeland Security to upgrade the event’s security classification.
What This Means for You
- More visible law enforcement and security measures could be in place at the NFL Draft
- Federal resources like K9 units and counter-drone systems may be deployed
- The request reflects broader security concerns tied to global conflicts
Fetterman, a Pennsylvania Democrat, asked Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to raise the event’s Special Event Assessment Rating, or SEAR—a federal system used to determine the level of security support for major public events.
The 2026 NFL Draft is currently classified as a Level 3 SEAR event, which provides federal coordination but at a lower level than top-tier designations. Fetterman is requesting a Level 2 designation, which would bring increased federal involvement, including enhanced intelligence sharing, additional law enforcement personnel, and specialized security assets.
Why the Upgrade Is Being Requested
The senator cited what he described as a changing threat environment following the war in Iran as a reason for seeking additional federal support.
“Increasing the SEAR designation for the Draft will help ensure that additional resources are deployed to keep participants and fans secure and able to enjoy the Draft without fear,” Fetterman wrote in a letter to the department.
A higher SEAR level typically results in expanded coordination between federal, state, and local agencies, along with access to resources such as bomb detection dogs, counter-drone technology, and advanced surveillance and intelligence operations.
Size and Scope of the Event
The three-day NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23 through April 25 and is expected to draw more than 700,000 attendees to outdoor events at Point State Park and Acrisure Stadium.
Organizers also expect more than 50 million viewers to watch the event on television or online.
The draft has historical ties to Pennsylvania, where it was first held in 1936 in Philadelphia. This year marks the first time since 1948 that the event will take place in Pittsburgh.
Next Steps
The Department of Homeland Security will review the request and determine whether to adjust the event’s security classification.
A decision to elevate the SEAR level would trigger additional federal planning and resource allocation ahead of the event.
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