Big news hit the NFL circuit this week as the league officially approved a bylaw allowing its players to compete in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics. This groundbreaking move opens the door to a unique opportunity for players to represent their countries in a sport that adds an exciting twist to traditional football. With the resolution passing unanimously, each team can now send a maximum of one player per country, creating a competitive and exclusive environment, as the National Olympic Committee has capped Olympic rosters at ten players.
Among those vying for a shot at Olympic glory are Detroit Lions stars Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs. St. Brown, known for his fierce competitive spirit, is already throwing his hat into the ring. He took to Instagram, posting “It’s up!” followed by a nod to his heritage with “Die Mannschaft,” the German term for “The Team.” Despite his California roots, St. Brown’s German heritage runs deep, as his mother is German and he speaks the language fluently, making him a prime candidate for the German national team.
Not to be outdone, Gibbs, the talented Lions running back, also expressed his eagerness to join the Olympic roster. The 23-year-old rising star went all out on social media, exclaiming, “Omg pls let me strap up,” while playfully tagging St. Brown with the tease, “Gonna be a long day on this island for u buddy.”
With flag football’s format being five-on-five and teams limited in size, versatility is key. Players who can shine on both offense and defense will undoubtedly be valuable assets. Gibbs has already provided a glimpse of his dual-threat capabilities during last year’s Pro Bowl, showcasing agility and defensive acumen that could serve him well in this new arena.
Though the 2028 Summer Olympics are still over three years away, the prospect of NFL players hitting the field in flag football is an exciting thought. As fans, it’s impossible not to dream about how these athletes might translate their skills to this fast-paced, high-energy format. While we can’t predict if NFL players will emerge as the best in the flag football realm, the anticipation for what’s to come is certainly building. Stay tuned; the stage is set for an extraordinary chapter in the intersection of NFL talent and Olympic competition!
