The 2026 NFL Draft kicked off in Pittsburgh, Pa., on Thursday night, with a red carpet strewn with unique suited styles from prospective NFL players and the night’s top picks.
Sentimental touches were a major trend several athletes incorporated into their looks. WWD breaks down those looks and more ahead.
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Colton Hood opted for vibrancy in a cobalt blue suit with a special touch on the interior lining of his jacket. Upon opening the suit jacket, Hood revealed a series of family photos incorporated into the lining of the fabric, chronicling the athlete’s journey and sentimental moments with his family, who joined Hood on the red carpet.
Jeremiyah Love wore a custom suit lined with original art of “Jeremonstar” — a superhero alter ego for Love inspired by Japanese manga. The athlete collaborated with his father Jason Love, a comic book fan, creative agency Limited Edition, suitmaker Pantheon Limited, along with guidance from Sharpie to create the animated effects. The artwork on the internal lining of the jacket was done by artist Ryan Odagawa.
Continuing the theme of sentimentality, heritage and family, Francis Mauigoa wore a dark suit with an ornate painting on the back of his jacket. The design featured iconography that paid homage to Mauigoa’s Samoan heritage. He paired the look with sneakers by Louis Vuitton.
Arvell Reese spotlighted his partnership with the candy company Reese’s with his suit. The athlete, clad in sleek black-and-white tuxedo-style attire, showcased the interior lining of his jacket, which featured Reese’s iconography and logo throughout in shades of orange, brown and yellow. The partnership is a cheeky nod to the athlete’s name and follows suit with the candy brand’s expanding collaborations.
Ty Simpson suited up in a sleek navy look, coordinated tie and a white dress shirt on Thursday night’s red carpet. The athlete nodded to his partnership with activewear brand Alo as well, adding the logo to one of the sharp lapels on his jacket. Bronze buttons were added on the cuffs and the front of the jacket, further augmented by the athlete’s brown shoes.
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