In a historic move, NFL owners have unanimously approved a resolution that allows players to try out for flag football teams competing in the 2028 Olympics. This decision was made during the spring league meeting in Minneapolis, where the vote was an overwhelming 32-0. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s an incredible honor for any athlete to represent their country in the Olympics, which is the pinnacle of global sport.”
The inclusion of flag football in the Olympic Games has generated palpable excitement among NFL players who are eager to showcase their skills on an international platform. Goodell highlighted that many players are thrilled at the opportunity to compete for their country. Minnesota Vikings players Justin Jefferson and Brian Asamoah II were present to announce this groundbreaking news. Jefferson noted, “Even though it’s three years down the line, just to think about the chances of playing in the Olympics and getting the gold medal is a dream.”
Troy Vincent, the NFL’s executive vice president of football operations, compared the potential impact of NFL players in the Olympics to the transformative effect of the “Dream Team” for the NBA. He stated, “America’s game is now on the world stage.” Vincent anticipates a surge of interest from both current players and veterans looking to represent their countries of heritage if they do not make the U.S. team. This development presents a unique opportunity for players to expand their brands.
According to NFL executive Peter O’Reilly, the resolution opens the door for over 300 players currently representing their countries through flag football. Each NFL roster will be allowed to send one player to try out for a national Olympic flag football team, meaning that multiple players from a single team can compete, provided they represent different countries. The International Federation of American Football will oversee the participation of six countries for both men’s and women’s flag football in the 2028 Summer Games.
The flag football competition is expected to be held in a five-on-five format, with meticulous scheduling to avoid conflicts with NFL commitments. Practices and events will be organized during a designated dead period within the NFL calendar, ensuring that players are available for both the Olympics and their respective NFL training camps. The Olympics are set to begin on July 14, 2028, making this a strategic time for players to participate without disrupting their professional obligations.
Ensuring the safety of players participating in Olympic flag football is a priority for the NFL. Teams that include NFL players on their rosters will be required to meet “certain minimum standards” for medical staff and field conditions. The NFL and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) will engage in further discussions to establish these safety standards. NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell Jr. emphasized the players' desire to compete in the Olympics, assuring that health and safety protections will be a key focus.
Despite concerns about potential injuries and scheduling conflicts, the NFL remains optimistic about the growth of flag football as a sport, both nationally and internationally. The game is already played in over 100 countries, with participation among children in the U.S. increasing by 38 percent from 2014 to 2023. The NFL's initiatives, including the NFL Flag 50 campaign aimed at promoting girls' flag football, reflect the league's commitment to expanding the sport.
As the NFL prepares for this unprecedented opportunity, the potential benefits of participating in the 2028 Olympic Games could lead to increased interest and investment in flag football. With ongoing discussions about creating professional leagues and promoting the sport at various levels, the NFL is poised to leverage this moment to enhance football's popularity worldwide. Ultimately, this resolution represents a significant step toward integrating flag football into the global sports arena, promising exciting developments in the years to come.
