Prediction markets have created a new incentive for NFL draft leaks, according to former league executives. Former Chargers GM Tom Telesco estimates roughly 20 to 30 people within a team know a draft pick 24 hours before selection day. A decade ago, that knowledge would have required illegal betting or offshore wagers—today, someone needs only sign up for an account on platforms like Kalshi or Polymarket.

The NFL has pushed back, sending cease-and-desist letters to these markets demanding they remove wagers on predictable outcomes like draft picks and player transactions. Both platforms rejected those requests, with over 100 draft-related propositions still available and approximately $2 million already wagered on who will be selected second overall. Unlike traditional sportsbooks that monitor suspicious activity and block accounts, prediction markets simply allow odds to shift with the betting flow.

Former executives see this as a serious integrity problem. Kevin Colbert recalls the Steelers' draft room was essentially open to anyone, relying on trust. Ran Carthon acknowledges the temptation—scouts earning $35,000 annually could easily be drawn to a quick $5,000 profit. Martin Mayhew believes it's only a matter of time before someone with insider knowledge places a bet, with the real uncertainty being whether they get caught.