Minute Media Redefines the NFL Draft Experience

The 2026 NFL Draft was more than just a selection process; it was a showcase of how Minute Media’s diverse portfolio can come together to deliver an unparalleled, fan-first experience. This year, our tech, product and editorial teams across the globe collaborated to provide deep insights, real-time data and authentic athlete storytelling. We are proud to share the highlights of how our brands showed up for one of the biggest moments in sports.

Our product and tech teams collaborated with editorial leaders to launch a premium, real-time tracking experience for Sports Illustrated. The tracker allowed fans to follow every pick live while engaging with rich editorial insights and video analysis from both SI and FanSided experts, creating a seamless bridge between data and expert commentary. Building on this real-time focus, FanSided redefined traditional draft coverage with an interactive digital Big Board powered by their vast network of local experts. Moving beyond a generic list, the board provided tailored, fandom-first prospect rankings and unique insights for all 32 NFL teams, ensuring that every fan found the specific information most relevant to their franchise.

The storytelling extended into deep-dive features, such as when Sports Illustrated released a stunning digital cover story on quarterback Fernando Mendoza just as he was selected No. 1 overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. This profile explored his stoic intellect, his focus on emulating Tom Brady’s legendary field vision and the unwavering support from his family that fueled his path to the league.

Complementing these digital narratives, The Players’ Tribune brought athlete storytelling to life with “The Players’ Spot,” an unforgettable IRL event in Pittsburgh. Hosted ahead of the draft, the event allowed us to celebrate the incoming rookie class and form meaningful, face-to-face connections between athletes, fans and our brand partners.

At Minute Media, this cross-company collaboration is exactly what we strive for: combining innovative publishing technology with premium storytelling and authentic experiences. We are excited to keep pushing the boundaries of sports media.