At what round do compensatory picks start in the NFL Draft?

Compensatory picks in the NFL Draft begin in the third round. This system is designed to reward teams that have lost more or better players in free agency than they have signed. By placing these compensatory picks in the third round, the NFL aims to balance the competitiveness of the league, allowing teams that may have lost significant talent an opportunity to replenish their rosters earlier in the draft process.

Starting compensatory picks at this round also ensures that the first two rounds, which are crucial for an organization’s immediate future, remain focused on the top talent available. This placement reflects an understanding of maintaining competitive balance while still giving teams an incentive to properly manage their rosters and free agency decisions. Thus, the third round serves as a strategic point for compensatory selections, aiming to enhance the overall leveling of talent across all teams.