Detroit 2024 NFL Draft
Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza in Detroit, Michigan on April 25–27, 2024
Dedan Blackmon
The highly anticipated day had finally arrived – the day when the entire world would get to experience Detroit. As I arrived downtown, I was struck by the unprecedented crowds; it felt like a modern-day Woodstock, with NFL draft signs and people from all over the country – Kansas City, New York, Miami, Dallas, San Francisco, New Orleans, Chicago, and beyond. I wondered how it would all unfold, but to my delight, the city exuded nothing but love and pride.
Every team proudly represented their city – the LA Rams in their ram-adorned jerseys, the Green Bay Packers in their iconic cheese hats, and so on. They got to witness Detroit’s stunning beauty, from the vibrant Hart Plaza and Riverwalk to the breathtaking river views, especially at sunset. The city had truly outdone itself in hosting the draft, showcasing Detroit as a premier destination.
But the real stars were the people of Detroit. For too long, the city had been unfairly maligned, but now the world could no longer deny its amazing spirit and energy. The NFL helmets lining Hart Plaza, the Lombardi Trophy on display, the games for all ages, and the live music from Detroit’s own Big Sean and Eminem created an electrifying atmosphere. Even the famous Coney dogs were available for all to enjoy.
The rich Motown heritage was also on full display, with nods to legends like Berry Gordy, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5, and The Temptations. Everyone in attendance seemed to be having the time of their lives, united in a shared sense of home and belonging. Detroit had truly shown the world how great it is, breaking the record with over 775,000 attendees – a testament to the city’s enduring spirit and resilience. As Muhammad Ali would say, it was “the greatest of all times.”
