And just like that, NFL owners have approved a resolution that will allow players to join the USA flag football team in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. They're surely aware of the risk that comes with participating in non-related sport activities, but the prospect of getting worldwide exposure might've been too good to pass up. And while it's hard to tell how the final roster would look, and handful of Jacksonville Jaguars would be great fits.
Earlier this year, it was reported that the league was considering borrowing active NFL players to be part of the Olympic team. Owners ultimately voted 32-0 to pass the resolution and will now be working with the NFL Players Association and Olympic officials to work out the arrangements.
Specific details will eventually emerge, but maybe the NFL will offer incentives to teams to lend some of their best players. Even then, though, some clubs may be reluctant to let their stars participate in the Olympics because of the injury risk. On the other hand, imagine the kind of attention the Jags would get around the world if someone like Travis Hunter joined the USA team.
Speaking of Hunter, he's the first name that comes to mind. Sure, he had a rough start on Day 1 of Organized Team activities, but his athleticism and ability to play two ways would make him an intriguing addition to the USA delegation. That said, he would be far from the only Jaguar who would have a massive impact in the Olympics.
Travis Etienne, and Brian Thomas could also represent the Jaguars in the Olympics
Travis Etienne has been the subject of trade speculation since the end of the 2024 season, but it's not because he's a bad player. The former Clemson Tiger logged over 1,000 yards in both 2022 and 2023. On top of that, he was among the league leaders in broken tackles as recently as two years ago. If that wasn't enough, he's got top-notch evasive skills, which would make him an obvious choice for a flag football team.
If you want speed, though, Brian Thomas Jr. is your go-to guy. The former LSU Tiger was the fourth-ranked receiver in last year's draft but turned out the be the best of the bunch, registering 1,282 yards with 10 touchdowns as a rookie. But as fast as he is, he's far from a one-trick pony.
Thomas' route-running is superb, and his release at the line of scrimmage is second to none. When you add it all up, he would be a great asset in the Olympic delegation. That said, it's hard to tell how the USA team will put together its roster. There are plenty of worthy players across the league who would be thrilled to get the nod. Heck, All-Pro receiver Justin Jefferson just said that getting a gold medal would be a dream come true.
In the end, it will be interesting to see how the USA chooses the roster, but there's no doubt that the trio of Travis Hunter, Travis Etienne, and Brian Thomas Jr. would be great representatives.
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