A lucky 2026 NFL Draft selection will earn more than a chance at entering professional football thanks to HEINZ’s free ketchup sponsorship.
Top college football stars like Fernando Mendoza, Arvell Reese and Jeremiyah Love are expected to be selected early in this year’s draft. However, the number 57 pick features a unique activation that will make the second round very intriguing.
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HEINZ announced its plan to give away free ketchup for life to “Mr. 57,” an ode to NFL legend Devin Hester. The former kick return specialist and the bran are teaming up to give a special reward to the no. 57 pick on Friday.
HEINZ teams up with Devin Hester to welcome the first “Mr. 57” at the NFL Draft, awarding a custom jacket, ketchup for life and a partnership. pic.twitter.com/6RVZBDug2a
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 22, 2026
The former Chicago Bears star was selected no. 57 overall during the 2006 draft. Hester went on to feature with four different NFL teams and was named All-Pro on three different occasions.
The Kraft brand is getting creative by not only promoting itself on one of the biggest stages in the NFL, but also providing huge value to a college football prospect leaping to the next level.
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“Mr. 57” receives a custom red jacket inspired by the famous ketchup brand. The partnership will likely feature advertising promotions and other social activations as well.
However, the free ketchup could certainly be a major appeal to the lucky player.
The NFL Draft’s massive audience certainly makes HEINZ’s idea genius considering the attention on the event. This year’s draft also happens to be taking place in Pittsburgh, the home of the six-time champion Steelers.
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Pittsburgh’s home stadium shared the name of HEINZ Field for many years before Acrisure took over naming rights.
The Bears currently hold the no. 57 pick in this year’s draft prior to the event taking place Thursday night. However, it’s unclear if another team will swap places with the NFL North franchise.
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Trades are extremely common on draft night, especially after Round 1 is completed. Meanwhile, the college football star that does earn “Mr. 57” honors certainly will be closely watched.
