NFL Considers Player Participation in the 2028 Olympics
The NFL could take a significant step towards the global expansion of flag football. Team owners will vote next week on a resolution that would allow their players to participate in the flag football modality at the 2028 Olympic Games.
According to a memo sent to the teams, the participation of NFL players in Olympic flag football would support the growth of this sport and advance several league interests. Among them, it seeks to increase public and fan interest in flag football, expand the global reach of the NFL, and provide greater participation opportunities for fans and league partners.
The resolution establishes rules and a basic structure for the process, subject to negotiations with the NFL Players Association and entities related to the Olympic Games.
- Participation of any player under contract with the NFL in the trials will be permitted.
- It will be limited to one player per team in the games.
- The designated international player of a team will be allowed to play for their home country.
- Insurance policies will be acquired to provide protection in case of injuries.
- A credit on the salary cap will be granted in case of injury.
- Olympic flag football teams are expected to establish medical staff and playing surfaces that meet the minimum NFL standards.
- The schedule will not conflict with the commitments of NFL players.
The owners will meet in Eagan, Minnesota, to consider the resolution along with other league matters. Commissioner Roger Goodell and Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, along with other key league officials, have expressed their support for participation in the Olympics.
The 2028 Olympic Games are scheduled from July 14 to July 30, 2028, a period when NFL players are usually free. In the worst-case scenario, flag football participants would miss the start of training camp.
