Why isn’t Mel Kiper Jr. at the NFL Draft?

Mel Kiper Jr. is not attending the 2022 NFL Draft in Las Vegas, instead broadcasting from his home studio. Why isn’t he there?

The NFL Draft may move locations but there are some fixtures fans have just come to expect.

Of course, there’s commissioner Roger Goodell being booed as he walks up to announce picks. There are the big hugs on stage, the nervous looks in the green room and fans dressed up in full regalia.

Along with all of that, usually, there is Mel Kiper Jr. in front of a camera providing analysis of the picks. Except this year it’s different because Kiper won’t be in Las Vegas.

Why isn’t Mel Kiper Jr. at the NFL Draft

Kiper isn’t vaccinated for COVID-19, so he won’t be attending the draft in person. Instead, he’ll be at home giving his analysis remotely.

“The NFL Draft is the highlight of my year and I am looking forward to taking part in my 39th this month on ESPN. For all three days, I will appear from my home studio in Maryland rather than onsite in Vegas as I am unvaccinated from Covid-19,” Kiper tweeted.

“I completely support everyone determining what’s best for their individual circumstance and recognize the value of vaccines. Simply put, my Covid vaccination decision is very specific to my own personal medical history. I appreciate my colleagues, particularly the production staff and my fellow commentators, for their support and flexibility. NFL fans are the most passionate in all of sports and I can’t wait for another great NFL Draft.”

Kiper will still be around to weigh in on each draft pick, so draft coverage on ESPN won’t be drastically changed. However, the broadcast will have to adjust to having their lead analyst off-site.