Flag football will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and several NFL stars have already expressed interest in participating in the historic event.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed that many players in the league want to compete in the Olympics. “I’ve heard directly from many players who want to participate and represent their country, whether it’s the United States or the country they’re from,” Goodell said at the close of the NFL’s annual meeting.
TYREEK HILL AND JOE BURROW WANT TO BE OLYMPIANS
Among the players who have expressed interest are Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill and Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Both hope to have the opportunity to become Olympians and compete on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
While Goodell did not guarantee that NFL players will be able to participate, he said he expects the league and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) to reach an agreement in the near future. “I think it’s something we’ll continue to discuss, not only with the union, but also with the clubs. We’ll probably resolve it in the next 60 days.”
THE NFL SUPPORTS FLAG FOOTBALL AT THE OLYMPICS
The NFL has provided significant support for flag football in its run-up to the Olympics. Goodell stressed that the sport’s inclusion on the Olympic stage will be a pivotal moment for its overall development. “The Olympic Games are the pinnacle of international sport. To be able to participate with men’s and women’s flag football teams from around the world is a significant moment for us,” he said.
In addition, Goodell believes that Olympic participation could fuel the growth of flag football both domestically and internationally. This boost would also position the NFL to capitalize on the sport’s rise in popularity, as the league is working on launching a professional flag football league.
PROFESSIONAL FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUE
“There is clearly a lot of interest in a professional flag football league,” Goodell commented. “We have received proposals from people interested in investing, either financially or in operations. We are working hard and I expect there will be progress soon.”
