NFL Owners Approve Players for Flag Football Debut at 2028 Olympics

The NFL owners have unanimously approved allowing players to compete in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, marking the sport's Olympic debut and creating an unprecedented opportunity for NFL athletes to represent their countries on a global stage. The decision permits a maximum of one player from each NFL team to participate, with player selection based on tryouts and qualification processes, and also includes designated international players representing their home countries. Flag football in the Olympics will feature a modified game format with five players on the field per team, two 20-minute halves, and a smaller playing field, differing significantly from traditional NFL football. While the inclusion is seen as a strategic move to boost the sport's global appeal and inspire wider participation, NFL officials and analysts acknowledge the challenges, including injury risks, salary cap considerations, insurance arrangements, and potential schedule conflicts with NFL training camps. Despite these hurdles, many professional players are expected to embrace the opportunity for patriotic pride and international recognition, even without financial incentives, highlighting a shift in how NFL athletes may value Olympic participation. The move is widely regarded as a landmark evolution in American football’s international presence and a unique chance for the league to grow its global footprint.