Darrell Green’s Flag Football Aspirations

Former NFL star Darrell Green is still chasing his dream of playing football. At 66 years old, the two-time Super Bowl champion is trying out for the U.S. flag football national team in California this weekend, aiming for a spot in the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championship in Germany.

If things go well, Green, who hung up his NFL cleats in 2002, might receive an invitation to the training camp next month.

“There’s nothing like being on that field and competing to represent this country,” Green expressed. He added, “Then you can rise to the top and win the gold medal. I’ve participated in track and field in college and high school. I’ve been to the Super Bowl, and this feels like the granddaddy of them all. Don’t feel sorry for me; I’m a competitor just like anyone else, and I plan to give my all and leave with my head held high.”

Green is just one of many hopefuls looking to make the U.S. team, which is set to debut in Olympic flag football during the 2028 games in Los Angeles.

It’s impressive that, given his age, Green managed to meet the qualifying standards for the trials. Callie Brownson, senior director at USA Football, commented, “Darrell qualified at our digital combine. Although he’s further along in his career compared to other participants, his results were noteworthy. Our coaches and staff believe he deserves a closer look… He’s a rare athlete, staying fit and ready to compete this week.”

Having played 20 seasons in the NFL, Green secured two Super Bowl titles with Washington. Drafted in the first round in 1983, he made a mark with 60 interceptions throughout both regular and postseason play. His career accolades culminated in his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008.