The NFL Draft is one of the most highly anticipated events in professional sports, drawing millions of fans eager to see where the top college prospects will begin their careers. While the first three rounds often garner the most attention, the later rounds, including Round 4, are crucial for teams looking to uncover hidden gems and add depth to their rosters.
If you’re wondering what time Round 4 of the NFL Draft starts, you’re not alone. The timing of each round can vary slightly from year to year, but there is a general schedule that the NFL follows for its multi-day draft event.
Start Time of Round 4 of the NFL Draft
Round 4 of the NFL Draft typically takes place on the third day of the event. Over recent years, the draft has been structured as follows:
- Day 1: Round 1
- Day 2: Rounds 2 and 3
- Day 3: Rounds 4 through 7
On the third day, which usually falls on a Saturday, the draft resumes with Round 4 starting at approximately 12:00 PM ET (Eastern Time). This timing allows ample opportunity for the remaining rounds to be completed throughout the afternoon and early evening.
Where to Watch the NFL Draft
The NFL ensures that fans can watch the draft through a variety of channels. Round 4, like the earlier rounds, is broadcast on major sports networks, including:
- ESPN
- NFL Network
- ABC (usually providing extended coverage)
- Online streaming platforms such as the NFL’s official website and mobile app
Many sports networks also provide pre-draft analysis, expert commentary, and interviews with players and team officials.
Why Round 4 Matters
Although the top prospects are usually selected in Rounds 1 through 3, Round 4 and beyond have proven to be critical for NFL teams. Many legendary players and key contributors have been drafted in the later rounds. Teams that excel in scouting and development can find talented athletes who may become future stars.
Notable NFL players who were drafted in Round 4 or later include:
- Tom Brady (Pick 199, 6th round, 2000) – Widely considered the greatest quarterback of all time.
- Shannon Sharpe (7th round, 1990) – Hall of Fame tight end with multiple Super Bowl wins.
- Stefon Diggs (5th round, 2015) – A dynamic wide receiver who has become one of the league’s best.
These examples highlight how important rounds like Round 4 can be for shaping a team’s future success.
How Long Does Round 4 Last?
Each NFL Draft round has a set time limit for teams to make their selections:
- Round 1: 10 minutes per pick
- Round 2: 7 minutes per pick
- Rounds 3-6: 5 minutes per pick
- Round 7: 4 minutes per pick
With 32 teams making selections (barring any trades that alter the number of picks), Round 4 can take approximately two to three hours to complete.
Key Storylines to Watch in Round 4
By the time Round 4 begins, many of the biggest names in the draft have already been selected. However, there are still several compelling storylines to follow, including:
- Teams looking for value picks – Franchises often target positions of need with players who may have slipped due to injuries or concerns about size and athleticism.
- Smaller-school prospects – Round 4 is where lesser-known players from smaller programs get their chance to shine.
- Potential draft-day trades – Teams frequently move up or down the draft board based on available talent and roster needs.
For fans who love the strategic aspect of team-building, Round 4 often brings exciting selections that can shape a franchise for years to come.
Conclusion
Round 4 of the NFL Draft is scheduled to start at 12:00 PM ET on the third and final day of the event. While it may not have the same level of hype as the earlier rounds, it remains a crucial part of the drafting process. Many teams rely on these picks to find players who can contribute both immediately and in the future.
With plenty of talent still available, trade possibilities, and the potential for future superstars to emerge, Round 4 is a must-watch for dedicated football fans. Be sure to tune in to your preferred sports network or streaming service to catch all the action as teams shape their rosters for the upcoming NFL season.