The first round of the NFL draft on Thursday night averaged 12.1 million viewers on television and digital platforms, a 6% increase over last year.
It is the highest day one viewership since 2021, when there was an average audience of 12.6 million.
ESPN, ABC, NFL Network, ESPN Deportes and the league's digital channels aired Thursday's coverage. The league and Nielsen said that 34.3 million viewers tuned in at some point to watch the first round.
Watch some of our coverage from the NFL Draft below
Detroit Lions draft Missouri CB Ennis Rakestraw in 2nd round
'We're thrilled.' Detroit Lions draft Missouri CB Ennis Rakestraw in 2nd round
Taking on the Detroit Lions fan experience at Hart Plaza
Taking on the Detroit Lions Fan Experience at Hart Plaza
Detroit back in the national spotlight for the NFL Draft
Detroit back in the national spotlight on day 2 of NFL Draft
