The Baltimore Ravens, Philadelphia Eagles, and Pittsburgh Steelers each secured four compensatory selections for the upcoming NFL draft on April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. These picks were awarded according to the league’s formula assessing the teams’ free agency losses and acquisitions from the previous offseason, with the Minnesota Vikings also receiving a third-round pick after losing quarterback Sam Darnold to Seattle.
Breakdown of Third-Round Picks Awarded This Year
The NFL distributed 33 compensatory picks spanning rounds three through seven. The Vikings were granted the 97th overall selection for losing Darnold, while the Eagles earned the 98th pick after defensive tackle Milton Williams departed for New England. The Steelers obtained the 99th pick following the loss of offensive lineman Dan Moore to Tennessee. These picks reflect teams losing higher-value free agents compared to those acquired.
The Detroit Lions received a third-round compensatory pick for Aaron Glenn’s hiring as head coach by the New York Jets last year, although this pick, numbered 100 overall at the end of the third round, was later traded to Jacksonville.
Additional Picks and Distribution Across Other Teams
Beyond the third round, the Eagles secured extra compensatory selections in the fourth, fifth, and sixth rounds, while Pittsburgh added one more fourth-round pick and two in the sixth round. Baltimore obtained two picks in the fifth round and two more seventh-round selections. The Ravens hold the distinction of having accumulated the most compensatory picks since the program’s inception in 1994, totaling 64.
The San Francisco 49ers earned three picks, all in the fourth round. Other teams with multiple compensatory picks include Dallas, Denver, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, the Los Angeles Rams, and the New York Jets, each receiving two selections.
How Compensatory Picks Are Determined
Compensatory draft picks are calculated using a complex formula that takes into account the salary paid, on-field playing time, and postseason honors of free agents lost versus those signed. Not every player movement contributes to the formula, only those that meet certain criteria set by the league. In addition, teams may be awarded picks for hiring minority candidates into head coaching or general manager roles at other organizations.
Significance of the Compensatory Pick Program This Year
This year’s distribution of compensatory picks reflects the ongoing strategic importance of free agency and front office decisions in shaping team rosters. The Vikings’ acquisition of a valuable third-round pick after losing a key player like Sam Darnold highlights how losing notable free agents can translate into draft capital. Meanwhile, the Ravens, Eagles, and Steelers’ league-leading number of picks offers them enhanced opportunities to bolster their lineups in the upcoming draft rounds.
