Written By The NFL Draft is one of the most highly anticipated events of the football season, where teams select players who they believe will help them win games and championships. However, there is a new phenomenon that has emerged during the draft that is causing concern among league officials and fans alike: “nexting.”
“Nexting” is the practice of prematurely moving on to the next pick before the current pick has been officially announced. In other words, teams are already thinking about their next move before they’ve even made their current selection. This behavior not only shows a lack of respect for the current pick but can also lead to errors and missed opportunities.
The problem with “nexting” is that it can cause confusion and chaos during the draft. When teams are not paying attention to the current pick, they can miss important information, such as a player’s status or potential injuries. Additionally, “nexting” can lead to errors in drafting, such as selecting a player who has already been chosen by another team.
In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers were the subject of criticism after reportedly “nexting” during their first-round pick. According to reports, the Packers were so focused on their next pick that they missed the deadline to make their current selection, resulting in them losing the opportunity to draft a player they wanted.
This behavior is not only a problem during the draft, but it can also have long-term consequences for teams. By not fully considering their current pick, teams may miss out on potential stars that could help them win games and championships.
The NFL has taken notice of the “nexting” trend and is taking steps to address it. In 2020, the league implemented a new rule that requires teams to make their selection within the allotted time or risk losing their pick. Additionally, the league has encouraged teams to stay focused on the current pick and not get distracted by what’s coming next.
However, some argue that the issue goes deeper than just a lack of focus during the draft. The pressure to win and build successful teams may be driving teams to prioritize their future picks over their current ones. This pressure can lead to impatience and a lack of focus during the draft.
In conclusion, “nexting” during the NFL Draft is a risky behavior that can have serious consequences for teams. The league’s efforts to address this issue are a step in the right direction, but it will take a culture shift within the league to fully eliminate this behavior. Teams must prioritize each pick and not let the pressure to win cloud their judgment. Only then can the NFL Draft truly live up to its potential as a key component of team-building and success in the NFL.
