This week at the NFL spring meetings in Minnesota, league owners unanimously voted to allow players to suit up for flag football at the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. After testing the format in the past three Pro Bowls, the move marks a major step in the NFL's global expansion strategy.
Under the proposal, national committees will select 10-player rosters—one athlete per NFL club—across separate men's and women's tournaments. Matches will be 5-on-5 on a 50-yard field, offering fast-paced thrills for fans in the stadium and millions watching worldwide. With the Olympics running from July 14 to 30, the gold-medal match could wrap up before NFL training camps open, slotting neatly into offseason windows.
League executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent said, 'I think the world finally has an opportunity to see the greatest athletes in the world participate.' NFL executive vice president of club business and league events Peter O'Reilly added that safety protocols and scheduling logistics—including tryout and training periods—are already drawing informal support from clubs and players.
The decision builds on a growing trend: at least seven athletes—like safety Nate Ebner (rugby, 2016) and running back Herschel Walker (bobsledding, 1992)—have competed in both the NFL and the Olympics in the same year. For a new generation of players and fans, this announcement signals more than cross-sport opportunity—it’s a chance to grow flag football into a global showcase, connecting young fans from Tokyo to Toronto and beyond.
As the NFL and international governing bodies begin negotiations, all eyes will be on Los Angeles in 2028. Whether it’s a rookie making her Olympic debut or a veteran chasing one more title, flag football is set to bring fast action—and fresh stories—to the world stage.
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NFL owners approve players participation in 2028 Olympic flag football
cgtn.com
