NFL In Talks To Allow Players To Compete In Flag Football At LA 2028 Olympics
The National Football League (NFL) is gearing up for a potentially groundbreaking moment in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where flag football will make its debut as an official event. With the Olympic inclusion of this non-contact variation of American football, NFL players have shown significant interest in representing their countries on this global stage.
Jeff Miller, the NFL’s Executive Vice President, highlighted the excitement among players, saying, "The amount of enthusiasm that we've seen among our players, or more broadly for flag football in '28, has been remarkable."
Although Miller did not specify which players are eager to join, high-profile stars like Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts are among those rumoured to be interested.
The NFL is actively working with the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) to create a pathway for these athletes to compete in the Olympics while ensuring their safety and financial security.
U.S. flag football stars speak out against NFL players joining U.S. Olympic team
However, the potential inclusion of NFL stars in the Olympic flag football competition has sparked controversy among current flag football players. Darrell "Housh" Doucette, the U.S. flag football team's quarterback, expressed frustration over the possibility of NFL players swooping in to take spots on the Olympic team.
"I think it’s disrespectful that they just automatically assume that they’re able to just join the Olympic team because of the person that they are,” Doucette said.
Having led the U.S. team to gold at the 2022 World Games, Doucette believes that those who have contributed to the growth of flag football deserve to compete for Olympic spots on an even playing field.
Doucette's concerns reflect a broader tension between the established flag football community and the NFL's interest in the sport. While the NFL's involvement could elevate the sport's profile, players like Doucette worry that NFL stars might overshadow those who have been dedicated to flag football long before it became an Olympic event.
Doucette emphasised that NFL players shouldn’t be given a free pass based on their name alone, insisting that they should have to compete just like everyone else.
NFL looks to bring its athletes to a global stage
The debate is also fueled by the NFL’s desire to showcase its athletes on a global stage, something that excites the league but may concern individual teams. While the timing of the Olympics in July fits well with the NFL calendar, there are fears that potential injuries during the Olympics could impact the NFL season. Teams could be reluctant to let their star players participate in an event that does nothing to further their own championship ambitions.
As the 2028 Olympics approach, the NFL and flag football communities will need to navigate these challenges. The involvement of NFL stars could bring unparalleled attention to the sport, but it will also require careful consideration to ensure fairness and the protection of players on all sides.
With discussions ongoing, it remains to be seen how the final Olympic rosters will take shape and whether NFL stars will indeed take the field in Los Angeles.
