+1 (914) 653-6154 [email protected]

Cordarrelle Patterson shows off his suspenders during the red carpet portion of the NFL draft of Football, outside Radion City Music Hall in New York City

I shot the NFL Draft for several years, including the first time it took place at Radio City Music Hall.  It’s a slow-moving dirge that only drags as the night wears on, but I know it’s important. Some pictures have a life long after the draft (like Eli Manning’s deflated expression when picked by the San Diego Chargers in the first round).

Last year, though, I kept out of the main event and decided to focus on the way these new inductees to the world of pro football styled themselves for the event.

Cordarrelle Patterson gets out of his limo before the start of the NFL Draft in Radio City Music Hall, in New York City

Here’s a typical scene after an NFL game, but you’d only see it if you’re always the last person out the door after editing your take of the game: it’s the long procession of players on their way to the bus, but what makes this special is the way they’re dressed for the trip.

NFL defensive takcle Sharrif Floyd with sunglasses and a shiny diamond stud earring during the NFL Draft, outside Radio City Music Hall in New York City.safety Kenny Vaccaro during the 2013 NFL Draft Red Carpet welcome outside Radio City Music Hall in New York City

The color palette is like something from an Easter basket.  Purple, light pink and red, yellow from head to toe.  Fedoras.  Hankies (for showing, and not for blowing).  I’ve seen canes, too — from guys who just went four quarters.

042613DRAFT8SSNFL football great Joe Namath wears a smile at the NFL Draft outside Radio City Music Hall

So, for the NFL draft, I stayed put on the red carpet.  The style was eye-opening, and meant to make a statement: This is me, in the clothes I choose for myself at this point in my life.

Tim Tebow runs off the field shirtless during a New York Jets field practice at training camp, in the rain.