Some NFL players are showing interest in possibly participating in flag football when the summer Olympics take place in the U.S. in three years. The league revealed on Thursday that team owners will look into a proposal to allow active players to compete in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Recently, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell mentioned that the idea of players joining the Olympic competition is generating excitement within the league, suggesting that a resolution to this effect could be on the table.
In a statement from April, Goodell noted that many players have expressed a desire to represent their countries, stating, “I think that’s something that the union and clubs will continue to discuss. Both of these discussions will probably be wrapped up in the next couple of months.”
The proposed resolution would permit one player from each NFL roster to take part in the Games, with certain exemptions for international players from each team who wish to compete for their home nations.
This resolution would also include provisions for injury protection and salary cap credits for athletes hurt while competing. Furthermore, there will be contracts that outline what’s acceptable in terms of playing surfaces.
Flag football is set to make its Olympic debut in 2028, alongside other new sports like baseball/softball, cricket, lacrosse, and squash. The Games are set to begin in mid-July, and it’s anticipated that the flag football events won’t conflict with NFL training camps.
