The NFL Draft has tons of traditions.
However, one of the draft day staples - a hug from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell - might not be happening at all this year.
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Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that Goodell had back surgery three weeks ago and it might stop him hugging this year's prospects.
Goodell is reportedly recovering well from the procedure but his patented hugs will be a 'draft-time decision'.
This wouldn't be the first year Goodell's famous hugs went amiss.
The 2020 draft was also decidedly lacking in Goodell embraces as it took place virtually due to COVID-19.
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The 65-year-old has been at the helm of the NFL since 2006 and has pretty much seen it all during that time.
He's greeted each year's new wave of superstars with classic handshakes, cool dap-ups and full blown hugs.
Goodell customarily announces picks for the first round of the draft but the second and third rounds of this year’s event will be announced by team players and former legends.
His hugs have become something of a tradition though, as Doug Williams of ESPN explained in 2023.
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“When Goodell began presiding over the draft in 2007, No. 1 overall pick JaMarcus Russell got a handshake and a quick, one-armed, lean-in grab. Same with No. 2 choice Calvin Johnson," he explained.
“In 2010, however, Goodell got his hug on. After Sam Bradford went No. 1 (back pat, slight hug) and Ndamukong Suh No. 2 (handshake, arm pat), the Buccaneers selected Gerald McCoy from Oklahoma.
"As McCoy strolled across the stage toward Goodell, the commissioner extended his hand for a shake. But the grinning, 6-foot-4, 300-pound McCoy spread his arms wide, ignoring the hand, and enveloped Goodell in a hug that lasted six seconds."
Goodell allegedly told McCoy “you’re crushing me now” during the embrace.
Thankfully, his back was fine on draft day this year and he was able to embrace the draftees as they went up on stage.