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Patriots Set to Choose No. 31 in 2026 Draft

4/23/2026

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Summary

Patriots Pick No.31

Patriots will pick No. 31 between 10:15 p.m. ET and 10:30 p.m. ET in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Draft starts at 8:00 p.m. ET with eight-minute first-round slots.
The Patriots can stay at No. 31 or trade back, but need an edge rusher, offensive tackle, wide receiver, tight end and interior defensive lineman.
Fans should be ready by 10:00 p.m. ET for the last No. 31 pick, made in 2018 when Sony Michel helped the Patriots win their sixth Super Bowl.

Summary

NFL Draft Pittsburgh

The 2026 NFL Draft will be in Pittsburgh at State Park and Acrisure Stadium April 23–25, airing on NFL Network, ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes, streaming on Fubo.
Draft schedule sets Round 1 for Thursday at 8 p.m., Rounds 2-3 for Friday at 7 p.m., and Rounds 4-7 for Saturday at noon.
The NFL cut the clock to eight minutes—the first timing change since 2008—while the Lions, holding the No. 17 slot, aim to pick an offensive tackle.

History

Historical Context

The NFL draft, first held in 1936, has evolved significantly, with major changes like the introduction of an eight-minute clock for first-round picks in 2008 to enhance viewer engagement. By 2021, the draft attracted 30 million viewers, reflecting its growing popularity. The upcoming 2026 draft in Pittsburgh highlights ongoing adaptations to meet fan expectations and maintain competitive balance among teams.

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Patriots Pick No.31

Patriots will pick No. 31 between 10:15 p.m. ET and 10:30 p.m. ET in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Draft starts at 8:00 p.m. ET with eight-minute first-round slots.
The Patriots can stay at No. 31 or trade back, but need an edge rusher, offensive tackle, wide receiver, tight end and interior defensive lineman.
Fans should be ready by 10:00 p.m. ET for the last No. 31 pick, made in 2018 when Sony Michel helped the Patriots win their sixth Super Bowl.

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