Corey Behnke, who once dreamed of living near Lambeau Field as a child, now finds himself in an enviable position as the NFL draft arrives in Green Bay, Wisconsin next week. The event, regarded as one of the NFL’s most significant offseason spectacles, is set to unfold in the home of the league’s only publicly-owned franchise, the Green Bay Packers. The draft’s presence in Green Bay represents a long-awaited vision for Packers officials, who, unable to host a Super Bowl due to the city’s size and harsh winter climate, saw the draft as the next best opportunity.
Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy, preparing for his retirement this summer, sees the draft as a monumental event for Green Bay and the entire state. The local community is expected to benefit significantly from the draft, with an anticipated total attendance of around 250,000. Although this figure is smaller compared to last year’s record crowd in Detroit, it still marks a major occasion for the city.
The Green Bay metro area, with a population of approximately 320,000, faces certain logistical challenges due to its limited accommodation options. The city and nearby Appleton offer about 10,000 hotel rooms, meaning many visitors will need to find lodging in cities like Milwaukee or Madison. However, this is a familiar scenario for fans attending Packers home games.
The draft offers a chance to highlight Green Bay’s rich football traditions and history. Notably, the Packers’ unique training camp ritual, where players ride children’s bicycles to practice, will be incorporated into the event. A children’s bike parade is planned, and local artist Ike Wynter will create a walkway for first-round picks using reclaimed wood from across the state. Additionally, former Wisconsin Badgers stars will participate in announcing draft selections.
Lambeau Field is set to play a central role, with the surrounding area transformed into a hub of activity for the NFL Draft Experience. Fans will enjoy games, exhibits, and autograph sessions, with large screens ensuring everyone can watch the draft despite their distance from the stage. The event’s economic impact is projected to reach $20 million for Brown County and $90 million for Wisconsin, equating to the revenue from multiple Packers home games.
The draft will also highlight the area’s growth, with developments like the Resch Expo and Titletown contributing significantly to Green Bay’s successful bid. These facilities will host various draft-related activities, underscoring the region’s capacity to host large-scale events.
Corey Behnke, a lifelong Packers fan whose family has held season tickets since 1957, emphasizes the community’s deep connection to the team. As the president of the neighborhood association near Lambeau Field, he recognizes the responsibility to welcome visitors warmly, echoing the hospitality shown on game days. The draft is set to be a celebration not only of football but of Green Bay’s unique standing in the NFL.