NFL Draft Day is all about appearance, deception, and negotiation. It’s basically a giant poker game, with managers and teams leaking a mixture of truths and smokescreen to remain in an advantageously unknown position. For example, just about every mock draft had Mac Jones heading to San Francisco instead of their actual selection; Trey Lance.
As a result, there’s a certain allure that comes with the idea of war rooms. Teams communicating directly with one another, trying to figure out where other teams stand, what offers are on the table, or who will be left on the board.
Luckily for us, there are often cameras around to capture moments for us. Of course, these moments are carefully selected and curated so as not to reveal anything too damning, but they’re fun to watch nonetheless.
The Carolina Panthers released war room footage from Draft Day on their YouTube channel, and it was particularly entertaining. Essentially, the Minnesota Vikings were inquiring about the Panthers’ 8th overall pick. They weren’t really willing to offer much, however.
Not much in the way of manners with those denials. The Panthers can be heard essentially scoffing and making fun of the Vikings’ lowball offers.
“Negative Points” is in reference to NFL Draft Value Chart, which gives assigns a point total for each pick’s perceived worth. Usually if you’re the team moving up, you’ll have to offer a point total higher than the one you receive.
Fans seemed to really enjoy the behind-the-scenes look.
We welcome more content like this. Those war room be TENSE.
