JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Business was booming at a Jacksonville brewery on the first night of the 2021 NFL draft.
There was a lively crowd at the draft party Thursday evening at Strings Sports Brewery. Fans cheered and chanted when the Jaguars selected quarterback Trevor Lawrence with the No. 1 pick.
“It’s very exciting as us as a business and for the city of Jacksonville,” said Strings Sports Brewery owner Scott Adeeb.
Man fans called this the best draft day ever.
“It’s the first time in our history, so it’s crazy. A better quarterback than anyone else who came out,” said fan Barry Smith. “This is the best I’ve felt ever. As a Jags fan, best I’ve felt.”
This year, businesses got an economic boost after many were closed during the draft last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Adeeb said this year’s draft is better than 2020′s, as they could only do to-go orders last year.
“This time last year, everything was shut down, and we actually opened back up for the draft weekend, just doing wings to go and beer to go, and the excitement just doing that was fantastic, just doing the to go,” Adeeb said. “And this year, it’s night and day difference.”
Fans also enjoyed celebrating in person this year.
“I think it’s really cool being able to come in, sit down and eat and have food and see all the TVs and get everyone’s reaction live,” said fan Connor Slater.
“Even last year, even after a 1-15 season, we were busy every Sunday here for Jags games -- which tells how supportive this city is and how hungry the fan base is to cheer and support this team,” Adeeb said.
With Lawrence and coach Urban Meyer, fans believe there will be even more to celebrate during the upcoming season.