What is Mr. Irrelevant in the NFL Draft?

Every year, the National Football League (NFL) draft attracts a great deal of attention, but one player usually finds themselves at the center of a peculiar nickname: Mr. Irrelevant. This title is bestowed upon the last player selected in the draft, a position that carries a mix of humor, recognition, and sometimes, a glimmer of hope.

Origin and Tradition

The tradition of awarding the last pick with the name "Mr. Irrelevant" dates back to the 1960s and 70s, when the draft had around 17 rounds. At that time, Mr. Irrelevant usually meant someone who would not make it to the NFL. The nickname stuck, and it has been a cherished tradition to honor this player with a special ceremony each year.

Current Context and Perks

However, as the NFL draft has evolved, the number of rounds has been reduced from 17 to 7, and the role of free agents has become more significant. As a result, the title of "Mr. Irrelevant" is less applicable in its original sense. Despite this, the tradition remains, and so does the recognition for this special player.

Being awarded the title of "Mr. Irrelevant" offers several perks. These include:

Scheduled Ceremony

Post-draft, an elaborate ceremony is held to officially give the title to the last drafted player. This event is often filled with laughter and light-hearted jokes, but it also serves as a moment of genuine celebration for those who may otherwise be overlooked. The ceremony typically includes a speech from the player, media questions, and even some fun antics that involve local celebrities or draft analysts.

Media Attention

The player becomes a minor celebrity overnight. Media coverage is often generous, providing Mr. Irrelevant with a platform to express his feelings and share stories about his journey to the NFL. This media exposure can be beneficial for the player's future career, especially in terms of promotional opportunities with sponsors or draft analysts.

Recognition and Respect

Although "Irrelevant" may seem like an odd title, it actually highlights the difficult path many players face in the NFL. The honorary title serves as a reminder of the countless athletes who dream of making it to the league but may face tough odds. For Mr. Irrelevant, this recognition can be a significant morale booster, carrying symbolic weight in the journey to making the roster.

Again, while becoming a star NFL player is not guaranteed, the experience can be seen as beneficial in several ways. For one, being drafted, even if you're the last pick, means you were good enough to catch the eye of an NFL team. Additionally, the exposure gained from the "Mr. Irrelevant" ceremony can increase a player's visibility, enhancing their chances for a roster spot through free agency or undrafted player camps.

Conclusion

In the evolving landscape of the NFL draft, the title of "Mr. Irrelevant" has taken on a new meaning. While it once signaled a player's unlikely path to the NFL, it now symbolizes both a tradition and a moment of celebration. This unique title continues to evoke a mix of humor and respect, serving as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and the journey to success in any field.