NFL Approves Player Participation in Flag Football for 2028 Olympics

NFL players will be allowed to compete in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, marking the sport's Olympic debut and a major milestone for football on an international stage. The NFL owners approved the move with a 32-0 vote, and the games will feature 12-man rosters playing five-on-five with no offensive or defensive linemen, emphasizing speed and skill over contact. Star players such as Justin Jefferson, Lamar Jackson, and others from teams like the Green Bay Packers and Denver Broncos are considered prime candidates to participate, though concerns remain about injury risks and players' willingness to join. Flag football's non-contact nature and smaller team size make it distinct from traditional football, requiring different skill sets such as mobility and quick decision-making. Younger players like Miami Dolphins' De'Von Achane are viewed as better fits for Team USA due to their speed and playing style, which align well with flag football's demands. Overall, the inclusion of NFL athletes in Olympic flag football is expected to attract significant attention and could elevate the sport's popularity globally.