where can you bet on the nfl draft

Where Can You Bet on the NFL Draft?

You can wager on the NFL Draft in many states with legal sports betting. However, some states have restrictions, and others prohibit it entirely. This article will explore which states allow NFL Draft betting and which don’t.

Legal States and Sportsbooks

As of 2024, 15 states (plus Washington D.C.) allow unrestricted NFL Draft betting. This means you can place wagers on various markets, from predicting the first overall pick to player-to-team selections. These states recognize the NFL Draft as a significant event for sports betting enthusiasts and have embraced its popularity. Some of the prominent states in this category include⁚

Colorado
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Louisiana (regulated at the parish level)
Maine
Massachusetts
Michigan
New Hampshire
New Jersey
North Carolina
Oregon
Tennessee
West Virginia
Wyoming

You’ll find numerous reputable sportsbooks in these states offering a wide array of NFL Draft betting markets. Some popular options include⁚

DraftKings Sportsbook
FanDuel Sportsbook
ESPN BET
BetMGM
Caesars Sportsbook
PointsBet

These sportsbooks provide a user-friendly experience, competitive odds, and a variety of betting options for the NFL Draft. You can explore their platforms to find the best odds and promotions available for the event.

States with Restrictions

Several states allow NFL Draft betting but with specific limitations. These restrictions typically stem from concerns about potential insider trading or the non-sporting nature of the event. As a result, betting options might be limited, or approval for certain markets might be required.

Some common restrictions include⁚

Pre-Draft Wagering Only⁚ Some states mandate that all bets on the NFL Draft must be placed before the event begins. Live betting or in-play wagering during the draft is prohibited. This restriction aims to curb any potential risks associated with insider information influencing bets during the draft.
Limited Market Availability⁚ Certain states might not offer the full range of NFL Draft betting markets. For instance, you might find options to bet on the first overall pick or specific players being drafted within a particular round. However, more specialized prop bets, such as predicting a player’s exact draft position or the total number of quarterbacks drafted in the first round, might be unavailable.
Individual Market Approval⁚ In some states, each specific NFL Draft betting market needs to be reviewed and approved by gaming regulators before it becomes available to bettors. This meticulous process aims to ensure fairness and transparency and prevent any wagers that could be easily influenced by insider knowledge.

States with restrictions on NFL Draft betting include⁚

Arizona
Iowa
Mississippi
Nevada
Ohio
Vermont
Washington

Always check the specific regulations and available markets in your state before placing any bets on the NFL Draft.

States Where NFL Draft Betting is Illegal

Despite the growth of legal sports betting in the United States, several states still prohibit wagering on the NFL Draft. This restriction often stems from differing interpretations of what constitutes a sporting event or concerns about potential integrity issues due to the draft’s unique nature.

Some states view the NFL Draft as an event heavily influenced by internal team decisions and information not accessible to the public, making it susceptible to insider betting. Others maintain a stricter definition of sports betting, limiting it to contests involving direct competition on the field.

As of 2024٫ the following states with legal sports betting do not permit wagers on the NFL Draft⁚

Connecticut
Delaware
Kentucky
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Vermont
Virginia
West Virginia

It’s essential to remember that sports betting laws are constantly evolving. While these states currently prohibit NFL Draft betting, regulations could change in the future. Stay updated on your state’s gambling laws to understand the latest regulations and available betting options.

Popular NFL Draft Betting Markets

The NFL Draft offers a unique array of betting markets beyond traditional sports wagering. Here are some of the most popular options you’ll find at sportsbooks that offer NFL Draft betting⁚

First Overall Pick⁚ This straightforward market lets you bet on which player will be selected first overall. It often attracts significant action, especially as the draft draws closer and speculation intensifies.

Top 10/20 Picks⁚ You can bet on whether a specific player will be drafted within the top 10 or top 20 selections. These markets provide a broader range of options and can be less volatile than betting on the first overall pick.
Position of First Player Drafted⁚ This market involves wagering on the position of the first player selected at a specific position, such as quarterback, wide receiver, or offensive tackle.
Player Drafted by a Specific Team⁚ This market focuses on individual player selections by a particular team. For example, you could bet on a quarterback being drafted by a team in need of a signal-caller.
Over/Under Draft Position⁚ Sportsbooks set an over/under line for a player’s draft position, and you bet on whether they’ll be drafted before or after that line.

Remember that the availability of these markets can vary depending on the sportsbook and your state’s regulations. Always check the terms and conditions before placing a wager.

Tips for Betting on the NFL Draft

Betting on the NFL Draft can be both exciting and profitable, but it’s essential to approach it strategically. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your chances of success⁚

Do Your Homework⁚ Thoroughly research players, team needs, and mock drafts. Understand the strengths and weaknesses of prospects, and identify which teams are looking to fill specific positions.
Follow Expert Analysis⁚ Pay attention to reputable NFL Draft analysts and their insights. Consider their opinions on player rankings, team needs, and potential draft-day surprises.
Track Rumors and News⁚ Stay informed about rumors, trades, and official team visits leading up to the draft. These developments can significantly impact draft odds and player destinations.
Shop for the Best Lines⁚ Compare odds across multiple sportsbooks to ensure you get the most favorable lines for your wagers. Even small discrepancies in odds can make a difference in your potential payout.
Manage Your Bankroll Wisely⁚ Set a budget for your NFL Draft bets and stick to it. Don’t chase losses, and avoid betting more than you can afford to lose.

Remember, the NFL Draft is unpredictable, and surprises happen frequently. While these tips can guide you, there’s no foolproof strategy. Always bet responsibly and enjoy the excitement of the draft.

where can you bet on the nfl draft