Report: NFL unanimously allows players to compete in 2028 Olympics
NFL teams passed a proposal to allow players to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. That paves the way for players to participate in flag football.
The owners unanimously voted for approval, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer reported. The league announced the decision shortly thereafter.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter previously reported the expectation was the proposal would pass. Now, it’s official, and NFL stars will now get ready to compete in the Olympics. Players will able to participate via a tryout or qualification process before the games.
“It’s an incredible honor for any athlete to represent their country in the Olympics, which is the pinnacle of global sport,” said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement. “I know first-hand that the inclusion of flag football in the Olympics has sparked a tremendous amount of excitement among NFL players interested in the chance to compete for their country on the world stage. We are thrilled that they will now have that chance.”
In the 2028 Olympics, flag football will include six men’s teams and six women’s teams, each of which has 10 players. The game will also feature a 5-on-5 format.
Top 10
- 1Live
National Signing Day
Intel, updates, commitments
- 2Breaking
Brian Hartline
Expected to be named USF HC
- 3
NIL Battles
Recruits that cashed in
- 4
NSD Matters
HS recruiting still wins titles
- 5Hot
Kansas State head coach
Chris Klieman to retire
Get the Daily On3 Newsletter in your inbox every morning
By clicking "Subscribe to Newsletter", I agree to On3's Privacy Notice, Terms, and use of my personal information described therein.
The NFL has been leading the push to make flag football more prominent, and a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics helps that case. Following the proposal’s approval, the league will work with the International Federation of American Football and other officials with the Olympics to put together rules regarding participation. ESPN’s Peter Schrager said “guardrails” would likely be in place, particularly with regard to the playing surface and any potential injuries.
“I warmly welcome the outcome of this vote, which promises to add another dimension to what is already shaping up to be a game-changing debut for flag football at the Olympic Games,” said IFAF president Pierre Trochet in a statement. “The National Football League is home to the biggest stars in American football, who come from more and more countries, and now have the opportunity to shine on the greatest stage in world sport, showcasing everything that makes flag football a genuine worldwide phenomenon.
“IFAF’s 75 national federations join me in thanking our NFL partners for this further demonstration of their commitment to flag football in the Olympic movement. We will work together to ensure our sport contributes a defining element of LA28’s success.”