Law enforcement agents on Tuesday night seized an array of counterfeit NFL merchandise from at least one business in Pittsburgh’s Strip District two days before the 2026 NFL Draft kicks off in the city.
The operation, carried out by agents with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office and Pennsylvania State Police, is ongoing, according to Chief Deputy Attorney General Patrick Schulte.
The AG’s office posted a picture of some of the items seized, including what appear to be Steelers cowboy hats and bucket hats, sweatshirts and blankets.
There also appear to be Cleveland Browns dream catchers in the image, as well as sunglasses.
Authorities did not identify the business where the seizure occurred.
The NFL Draft hasn't started yet, but our agents are hard at work. Tuesday night, our Organized Retail Crime Section seized this counterfeit merchandise in the Strip District.
— PA Attorney General Dave Sunday (@PAAttorneyGen) April 22, 2026
We want everyone to have a fun, safe Draft experience. You can learn more about protecting yourself… pic.twitter.com/yg2HupOUmA
The AG’s office used the post to warn those attending the draft in Pittsburgh this week to use caution.
“The NFL Draft hasn’t started yet, but our agents are hard at work. Tuesday night, our Organized Retail Crime Section seized this counterfeit merchandise in the Strip District,” the post on X said.
The draft opens Thursday on the North Shore and in Point State Park and runs through Saturday.
While the draft will attract lots of fans, it will also likely present opportunities for criminals, Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday said in a news release.
Although there will be an increased law enforcement presence, Sunday urged visitors to use caution — and be especially aware of scams, fraud and counterfeit goods.
The news release asked visitors to be wary of deals that seem too good to be true and to check for signs of poor quality, such as sloppy stitching, missing security labels and irregular markings.
“This event has caused a lot of excitement for the city of Pittsburgh, football fans, and everyone planning to attend the many events surrounding the draft — I wish you all a safe and enjoyable weekend,” Sunday said. “To the bad actors with ill intentions who think they can blend into the crowds and prey on unsuspecting visitors — think twice, we will be watching.”
