The best things come to those who wait. Here’s why being Mr. Irrelevant in the NFL draft is priceless.

CNN - Apr 26th, 2025

Every year, the NFL draft concludes with the selection of 'Mr. Irrelevant,' the last player chosen, who gains entry into a unique fraternity. This tradition, started by Paul Salata in 1976, transforms what could be a disappointing moment into a jubilant celebration. Ryan Hoag, drafted as Mr. Irrelevant in 2003, recounts the emotional highs of being the final pick, where he was celebrated with his friends and family after a tense wait. The celebration includes a week-long event in Newport Beach, California, with activities like surfing lessons, a parade, and a 'roast and toast' dinner, capped by the awarding of the Lowsman Trophy, a humorous counterpart to the Heisman Trophy.

The significance of Mr. Irrelevant transcends the playful title, highlighting the achievement of being drafted into the NFL, a feat rarer than being struck by lightning. Despite the initial dubious honor, many Mr. Irrelevants have gone on to have notable careers, contributing to Super Bowl victories and leaving a mark in professional football. The tradition underscores the positive spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie, offering a refreshing contrast to the often cutthroat nature of professional sports. It celebrates the underdog and promotes unity, showcasing the power of encouragement and community support in a competitive landscape.

Nfl Draft Mr. Irrelevant Paul Salata Ryan Hoag Irrelevant Week Sports Fraternity Lowsman Trophy

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RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides an engaging and largely accurate account of the Mr. Irrelevant tradition in the NFL draft. It excels in clarity and storytelling, offering readers an enjoyable glimpse into this unique sports phenomenon. However, the article could benefit from greater transparency in sourcing and a more balanced representation of perspectives. While it captures the celebratory nature of Irrelevant Week, it lacks depth in addressing any potential criticisms or broader societal implications. Overall, the story is informative and entertaining, particularly for sports enthusiasts, but its impact and public interest are somewhat limited by its niche focus.

Accuracy

The story provides a largely accurate depiction of the Mr. Irrelevant tradition in the NFL draft. It correctly describes the origins and purpose of the title, as well as the celebratory events associated with Irrelevant Week. However, there are a few details that could benefit from further verification, such as the exact draft position of Ryan Hoag and Matt Elliott. Additionally, the claim about the odds of being drafted versus being struck by lightning would need statistical backing to ensure precision. Overall, the article maintains a high level of truthfulness and precision, supported by historical context and anecdotal evidence.

Balance

The article predominantly presents a positive perspective on the Mr. Irrelevant tradition, highlighting the celebratory aspects and the camaraderie among past recipients. While this angle is engaging, it does not delve deeply into any potential criticisms or downsides of the tradition, such as the pressure on players or the initial negative connotation of the title. The story could be more balanced by including perspectives from players who may have had mixed feelings about being labeled 'irrelevant.' Overall, the article leans towards a favorable portrayal, which may omit some broader viewpoints.

Clarity

The article is well-written, with a clear and engaging narrative that effectively conveys the excitement and uniqueness of the Mr. Irrelevant tradition. The language is accessible and the structure is logical, guiding readers through the history, personal stories, and cultural significance of the event. The tone is neutral and informative, making it easy for readers to follow and understand the content. Overall, the article excels in clarity, providing a coherent and enjoyable reading experience.

Source quality

The article references interviews with former Mr. Irrelevants and mentions CNN as a source, which adds credibility. However, it lacks a diverse range of sources, such as expert opinions or statistical data from the NFL. The reliance on anecdotal evidence from a few individuals limits the depth of the reporting. Additionally, there is no direct attribution to specific studies or reports that could enhance the authority of the claims made. While the sources included are relevant, the article would benefit from a wider variety of authoritative voices.

Transparency

The article provides some context about the history and purpose of the Mr. Irrelevant tradition, but it does not clearly disclose the methodology behind the selection of anecdotes or the criteria for choosing the featured players. There is a lack of transparency regarding how the information was gathered or verified. Additionally, potential conflicts of interest, such as relationships between the players and the event organizers, are not disclosed. Greater transparency about the article's research process and any affiliations would enhance its credibility.