NFL players could grace Olympic flag football fields at the Los Angeles Games. The league’s owners approved a proposal on Tuesday that will allow players to represent their countries in 2028.
The guidelines limit participation so there is only one player from each NFL team. The limit does not apply to international players, who the league encourages to represent their home countries.
“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,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We are thrilled that they will now have that chance.”
Several players have expressed interest in adding an Olympic medal to their resumes. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill and Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons have floated the idea.
“Players have expressed to us a great desire for the honor of competing in the Olympics, and we’re excited that our members will be able to represent their country on the highest international stage,” said NFL Players Association Executive Director Lloyd Howell Jr.
No NFL players will be a lock to participate in the Olympics, though. They will have to be selected by their respective national Olympic committees through a tryout or qualification process.
The inaugural Olympic flag football event will feature six men’s teams and six women’s teams. Each squad will include 10 players for the five-on-five games.
The 2028 Olympics are scheduled to run from July 14 through July 30. The NFL preseason typically begins in the first week of August.