Overnight ratings fell by double-digits for Day 1 of the NFL Draft, but remained quite strong.
First round coverage of the NFL Draft drew a 5.1 overnight rating on ESPN Thursday night, down 25% from last year (6.8) but up 11% from 2013 (4.6). The 5.1 is the network’s third-highest overnight for Day 1 of the draft since at least 2008 (seven telecasts) — trailing only last year and 2010 (5.4).
NFL Network earned a 1.4 for its concurrent first round coverage, according to Sports Business Daily, down 26% from last year (1.9) but up 17% from 2013 (1.2). The combined overnight of roughly 6.5 would mark a 24% drop from last year (8.6).
Last year’s overnights soared to record levels partly due to the drama surrounding Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel. The later than usual start date — May 8 — also played a likely role in the strong performance.
Cleveland was the top market for ESPN’s coverage with an 11.4 rating. New Orleans (8.6), Philadelphia (8.0), Columbus, OH (7.4) and Birmingham, AL (7.4) rounded out the top five.
(Thu. numbers from ESPN; NFLN overnight from Sports Business Daily)
