Sports
NFL Stars to Shine at 2028 Olympics as Owners Approve Flag Football Participation
With unanimous backing from team owners, NFL players are set to represent Team USA in the Olympic debut of flag football at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
In a groundbreaking decision, NFL owners have unanimously voted to allow players to participate in the flag football competition at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The vote, which required a 75% majority, passed with full support, opening the door for NFL athletes to chase Olympic gold in a sport making its debut on the world’s biggest athletic stage.
“This is an incredible honor for any athlete,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “The excitement among our players to represent their country in the Olympics is tremendous. We’re thrilled they will now have that opportunity.”
The Olympic flag football tournament will feature six men’s and six women’s teams, each made up of 10 players, with games played five-on-five. To maintain competitive balance and minimize risk, only one NFL player per team will be eligible to join Team USA, with built-in protections such as injury coverage and salary cap considerations.
The NFL is coordinating with the NFL Players Association, the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), and Olympic authorities to finalize participation details and ensure athlete safety.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, visibly emotional during the announcement press conference, expressed his childhood dream of Olympic glory. “To think about playing in the Olympics and winning a gold medal—it’s surreal,” Jefferson said. “Growing up watching Team USA in basketball or track and field, that was always the dream. Now football gets its chance.”
Flag football, a non-contact, high-speed version of American football, is played in over 100 countries by more than 20 million people. Its growing popularity has led to its inclusion in the Olympic program, and the NFL views this as a major opportunity to grow the sport globally.
“This decision represents more than just a vote; it’s a movement toward making American football more inclusive and accessible worldwide,” said IFAF President Pierre Trochet. “The NFL’s participation will elevate flag football to unprecedented levels.”
With stars like Lamar Jackson and Saquon Barkley potentially suiting up for the red, white, and blue, excitement is already building for 2028. Fans can expect explosive speed, dynamic plays, and a fresh Olympic spectacle that brings the spirit of American football to a global audience.