Friday, July 24, 2009

NFL draft starts on Thurs APR 22 at 7:30 EST. What do you think of that?

According to NFL.com
"The NFL draft will kick off in prime time for the first time in 2010, it was announced Thursday. The first round of the 2010 NFL Draft will start on Thursday, April 22 at 7:30 p.m. ET, with the second and third rounds on Friday, April 23 at 6:30 p.m. ET, followed by Rounds 4-7 on Saturday, April 24 at 10 a.m. ET."

This is ridiculous to me. The first round on Saturday in 2009 drew 6.3 Million viewers.
How can they expect that same amount on Thursday at 7:30 ET.
West Coast fans will still be at work or in traffic. If it is Thurs in primetime now other family members (stereotyping the NFL fan as male, head of the householder) will want to watch their shows at 8 PM.
I know why this move was made (ad revenue on Prime time TV versus Saturday and Sunday afternoon) but I really think it will mean fewer fans watch it.

Previously diehard NFL fans made the draft an event with parties or at least an outting to the sports bar to watch the first two rounds. Now any hope for a party at your house is out (unless you want to take the afternoon off).

If it aint broke don't fix it.
I have to think this is the worst decision Commissioner Goodell has made. I truly believe the fans were not considered much in this process.
For those who care to express their opinions:

National Football League
280 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017




Sam Hendricks, author Fantasy Football Guidebook, Fantasy Football Tips and Fantasy Football Almanac 2009

No comments: