NFL owners have unanimously approved a resolution allowing active players to compete in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The move, finalized during the 2025 Spring League Meeting in Eagan, Minnesota, marks a major step in bringing elite American football talent to the global Olympic stage.
The 2028 Games will feature flag football for the first time, with six men’s and six women’s teams competing in a five-on-five format. Each team will comprise 10 players.
The NFL will partner with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), and Olympic organizers to create participation guidelines. Key focus areas include player safety, scheduling, and fair team selection.
Top NFL stars have expressed enthusiasm for Olympic participation. “I’ve seen some of those guys play flag football, and they are a little faster than I am,” said Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who welcomed the challenge. Wide receiver Tyreek Hill has also voiced strong interest.
Each NFL team may nominate one player—including designated international players—for Olympic consideration. A competitive selection process, likely involving tryouts or qualifiers, will determine final rosters.
While the decision has been broadly welcomed, some within the flag football community have voiced concerns. Darrell Doucette, quarterback of the U.S. national flag football team, cautioned against sidelining longtime flag football athletes. “The sport needs to stay competitive and fair,” he said.
The move is part of the NFL’s larger effort to globalize the game and position flag football as a more accessible and inclusive sport. Olympic exposure is expected to significantly boost the sport’s visibility and inspire new generations of athletes.
