The NFL Draft provides a collective opportunity for millions of fans across the globe to come together and support the next generation of players as they begin their NFL careers. This year in Detroit, inspirational fans, community leaders, and special guests will join the NFL and participate in the 2024 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light by announcing select picks live on stage and remotely.
During the 2024 NFL Draft, fans and guests from organizations like The Trevor Project, Special Olympics, American Heart Association and the USA Wheelchair Football League will announce selections live in front of thousands of fans. The NFL will also help grant a surprise wish for a Make-A-Wish child when they announce the first-round pick of their favorite team on Day 1 of the Draft.
Throughout the Draft, the NFL will also recognize our country's military community through the league's Salute to Service initiative. During the opening ceremony and national anthem, the U.S. Military District of Washington's Joint Services Color Guard will present the national colors. A military flyover will also be conducted by the 107th Fighter Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard based at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan. On Day 2 between Rounds 2 and 3, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will recognize six service members from each military service branch and the U.S. Coast Guard on stage. During Day 3, the NFL will host a special Joint Enlistment Ceremony on stage featuring 35 military enlistees, celebrating their transition from civilian to military member.
Elizabeth 'Liz' Viele (Special Olympics), Denver Broncos
Liz is a Special Olympics Michigan Unified flag football athlete. She has been involved with Special Olympics since middle school and credits the organization with helping her and her peers find acceptance. In addition to her many sports with Special Olympics, Liz serves as an athlete leader, championing others to lead an active lifestyle, co-leading Special Olympics Michigan's Athlete Leadership Input Council, serving as the athlete representative on the Special Olympics Michigan board of directors, and representing the organization at numerous public speaking opportunities.
Read more on the NFL Draft here.