Mel Kiper Jr.
Mel Kiper Jr.
Draft Expert

Mel Kiper Jr.

"Nobody defined the NFL Draft like Mel Kiper." - Adam Schefter

Mel Kiper, Jr. has been an NFL Draft expert and analyst for ESPN since 1984. His predictions, rankings, and scouting reports are widely discussed by football fans and he has helped amplify the excitement and hype surrounding the NFL Draft. In the weeks leading up to NFL Drafts, Kiper – who is talkative and telegenic with a dome of dark, slicked back hair – became ubiquitous on ESPN and a celebrity on its TV and radio networks, as well as on its website. His “Big Board,” which ranks college prospects, has been closely watched by fans – treated like scripture by some while passionately criticized by others. These included at least one NFL general manager, as Kiper gained notoriety when Colts GM Bill Tobin said "Who in the hell is Mel Kiper?" during the 1994 NFL Draft.  During football season, Kiper watches 20 to 25 college games a week and talks extensively all year round with coaches and team executives. Kiper also publishes multiple annual draft reports through the company “Kiper Enterprises,” of which he is president.