For most sports bettors in the United States, the NFL season ends with the Super Bowl. But serious bettors know the action doesn’t stop there. The NFL Draft, usually held every April, has become one of the most popular offseason betting events. Sportsbooks across legal betting states now offer a wide range of draft-related markets, giving fans the chance to wager on everything from the first overall pick to which quarterback will be taken before another.
Betting on the draft is very different from betting on regular-season games. Instead of touchdowns, field goals, and point spreads, you’re wagering on front office decisions, media leaks, and draft boards. This means information, timing, and understanding team needs play a bigger role than stats on the field.
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This guide will break down the main types of NFL Draft bets, explain how player props and first-pick odds work, and give you tips to approach the market with a smarter strategy.
Why bet on the NFL Draft?
- Year-round action: Keeps NFL betting alive in the offseason.
- Unique market: Odds shift quickly based on insider reports, mock drafts, and rumors.
- Big edges for informed bettors: Books can’t perfectly price every player prop since the market is news-driven.
Unlike the Super Bowl or regular-season games where lines are sharp, the draft provides opportunities for bettors who stay on top of news cycles.
Types of NFL Draft Bets
1. First Overall Pick
The most popular market. Sportsbooks release odds on which player will be selected first. Historically, quarterbacks dominate this market, but elite defensive players or wide receivers occasionally shake things up.
Tip: Track team needs and follow credible beat reporters. Often, local insiders break news before national outlets.
2. Player Prop Bets
Examples include:
- Over/under draft position (e.g., Will Player X be drafted before pick 10.5?)
- First player drafted at a position (e.g., first wide receiver drafted)
- Head-to-head props (e.g., Will Quarterback A be drafted before Quarterback B?)
Tip: Mock drafts and consensus rankings help, but watch for late shifts when insiders report team preferences.
3. Team-Specific Bets
Some sportsbooks offer odds on which team will draft a specific player.
Tip: Look at rosters, depth charts, and recent free agency moves to see which teams have positional gaps.
4. Round Betting
Markets include whether a player will go in the first round or which round a certain position will dominate.
Tip: Pay attention to depth in draft classes—some years are stacked at wide receiver, others at offensive line.
Strategies for Betting the NFL Draft
- Follow credible sources: Avoid social media rumors unless confirmed by multiple insiders.
- Bet early when confident: Odds move fast once major mock drafts are released.
- Look for mispriced props: Sportsbooks can’t perfectly handicap every draft market, leaving opportunities.
- Correlate bets: If you believe a quarterback goes first overall, you might also bet on which wide receiver falls further down the board.
- Stay disciplined: Don’t chase every market; pick a few spots where you’ve done the research.
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FAQs
Q1: Can you legally bet on the NFL Draft in the US?
Yes, but it depends on your state. Draft betting is available in states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, but some states restrict wagering on events not played on the field. Always check your local sportsbook rules.
Q2: When do NFL Draft betting odds open?
Books usually open odds weeks in advance, but markets move heavily in the final days before the draft as more information leaks.
Q3: Are NFL Draft bets sharp or casual markets?
Draft markets are softer compared to NFL games, which means well-informed bettors can find edges more easily.
Q4: What is the most common NFL Draft bet?
The first overall pick is the most popular, followed by over/under draft positions and first player selected at each position.
Q5: How can I stay updated on draft betting news?
Follow beat reporters, mock drafts from reputable analysts, and team press conferences. Social media can be useful, but focus on verified, credible insiders.
