1997 NFL Draft

The 1997 NFL Draft was the procedure by which National Football League teams selected amateur college football players. It is officially known as the NFL Annual Player Selection Meeting. The draft was held April 19–20, 1997. No teams elected to claim any players in the supplemental draft that year.

This draft was notable for its high-profile offensive linemen. The first overall selection was Orlando Pace, who has appeared in seven consecutive Pro Bowls from 2000 to 2006. Defensive End Peter Boulware was picked 4th overall in the draft, and finished his career with a Baltimore Ravens team record 70 sacks. Walter Jones was taken 6th overall, and has made 9 Pro Bowls, including seven consecutive from 2001 to 2007. Tarik Glenn was selected 19th overall and has been named to three Pro Bowls as well. Others include Chris Naeole, Dan Neil, Ryan Tucker, Jeff Mitchell, Mike Flynn, and Joe Andruzzi.

The '97 Draft is also well-known for its running backs. Warrick Dunn was drafted 12th overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and rushed for over 10,000 yards in his career. Corey Dillon, Tiki Barber, Antowain Smith, Priest Holmes, and Duce Staley all enjoyed productive seasons in the NFL.

This draft is also well-known for its undrafted Pro Bowl players. Jake Delhomme, Priest Holmes, and Pat Williams all made Pro-Bowl trips at some point in their careers.

Hall of famers
None of the drafted players from the 1997 NFL Draft have been inducted into the Professional Football Hall of Fame.