1961 American Football League draft

Because another league was in competition for the class of 1961 college stars, the American Football League draft for 1961 graduates was held in 1960, with a six-round telephone draft on November 21 and 22, that saw the Denver Broncos select New Mexico State's Bob Gaiters as the overall first draft pick. The draft was completed on December 5 and 6th, with rounds seven through thirty. The San Diego Chargers were still the "Los Angeles Chargers" in this draft, as their relocation was not announced until late January 1961.