
For the first time ever, the NFL Draft took place in the smallest market, Green Bay. Attracting a record number of fans, the event had to deny entry before the first pick was announced. The draft officially commenced at 8 p.m. ET, and shortly thereafter, the Packers announced that entry would be paused due to capacity issues.
“The event venue has reached maximum capacity. General Admission entry has been paused at this time. Thank you for your patience!” — Green Bay Police (@GBPolice)
Social media reflected frustration among fans who had arrived early yet were unable to enter. Some managed to reach the gates an hour ahead of time but still found no entry available, while others took the cancellation in stride.
With an attendance reportedly hitting 125,000, more fans turned out than the city’s population itself. After a temporary halt, the gates reopened about 40 minutes later—much to the delight of both impatient and patient fans alike.