Free NFL Analytics Platform — A Directory of Our Hubs
StickToTheModel is a free NFL analytics platform organized around a few core hubs. Each hub is the home for a specific category of NFL coverage — pick the one that matches what you're looking for. No signup required.
Our Hubs
Mock Draft Simulator — The simulator hub. 7-round NFL mock drafts with trades, AI opponents, and instant grades.
NFL GM Simulator — The GM mode hub. Manage salary cap, cuts, trades, franchise tags, and the draft for any team.
2026 Draft Prospect Hub — Big board, scouting reports, combine measurables, and team visit tracker.
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Our platform offers data-driven NFL analysis with tools for draft preparation, fantasy football, and player research. All core features are free with daily updates during the NFL season.
The platform serves fantasy football players, NFL Draft enthusiasts, dynasty league managers, sports bettors, content creators, and casual fans exploring NFL statistics.
Draft Pick Compensation: NFL Definition
Draft picks exchanged between teams as part of trades, or awarded by the league to compensate for lost free agents. Draft pick compensation is the primary currency of NFL transactions.
Full Explanation
Draft pick compensation refers to the exchange of draft selections between teams as part of player or pick trades, as well as the compensatory picks awarded by the league for free agent losses. Draft picks serve as the NFL's primary trade currency because they represent future talent acquisition opportunities with predetermined, cost-controlled contracts under the rookie wage scale.
In trades, draft pick compensation can take many forms. Teams may swap current-year picks, future picks (up to three years in advance under current CBA rules), or combinations of picks and players. The value of draft picks in trades is typically assessed using value charts, such as the Jimmy Johnson chart or more modern analytics-based models. Higher picks command dramatically more trade value than later selections.
The league also awards compensatory draft picks to teams that lose more qualifying free agents than they gain. This form of compensation is determined by the NFL's proprietary formula and results in additional picks at the end of rounds 3-7. Additionally, specific programs like the minority hiring initiative can award compensatory picks to teams whose minority coaching or front office candidates are hired by other organizations, adding another dimension to draft pick compensation beyond traditional trades and free agency.
Category: Draft & Rookies. Part of the StickToTheModel NFL Encyclopedia.