The 1997 NFL Draft took place from April 19-20, 1997, at the Paramount Theatre at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This draft is notable for producing several Hall of Fame players and other impactful contributors to the league.

Unlike the 1944 draft, which was heavily influenced by the circumstances of World War II, the 1997 draft occurred during a period of relative stability for the NFL. Teams were focused on selecting players based on their college performance and projected professional potential. The draft spanned seven rounds, which is the standard format used in recent decades.

Several trades occurred during the draft, with teams maneuvering to select specific players they coveted. This draft is particularly remembered for the number of high-quality offensive linemen and skilled offensive players selected.

Top Ten Selections of the 1997 NFL Draft:

✦ 1. Orlando Pace (OT) - Ohio State (St. Louis Rams)

✦ 2. Darrell Russell (DT) - Southern California (Oakland Raiders)

✦ 3. Shawn Springs (CB) - Ohio State (Seattle Seahawks)

✦ 4. Peter Boulware (DE) - Florida State (Baltimore Ravens)

✦ 5. Bryant Westbrook (CB) - Texas (Detroit Lions)

✦ 6. Walter Jones (OT) - Florida State (Seattle Seahawks)

✦ 7. Ike Hilliard (WR) - Florida (New York Giants)

✦ 8. James Farrior (LB) - Virginia (New York Jets)

✦ 9. Tom Knight (CB) - Iowa (Arizona Cardinals)

✦ 10. Chris Naeole (G) - Colorado (New Orleans Saints)

Pro Football Hall of Fame Players Drafted in 1997:

Orlando Pace (Round 1, Pick 1 - St. Louis Rams)

Walter Jones (Round 1, Pick 6 - Seattle Seahawks)

Tony Gonzalez (Round 1, Pick 13 - Kansas City Chiefs)