Anticipation Grows for Olympic Flag Football in 2028

As the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles approach, excitement is mounting for the inclusion of flag football as a new Olympic event. This unique opportunity arises as the tournament will occur just before the NFL season kicks off, potentially allowing current professional players to participate. However, the prospect of NFL stars joining the Olympic roster has sparked controversy among established flag football athletes. Darrell "Housh" Doucette, a prominent quarterback for the U.S. national flag football team, has voiced his concerns regarding the NFL's influence on the Olympic team selection. He criticized a recent promotional video featuring Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, suggesting it undermines the efforts of those who have dedicated themselves to the sport. Doucette emphasized that NFL players should not assume they can seamlessly integrate into the Olympic team without proving their competitive abilities. Doucette, who has led Team USA to multiple victories, including the 2021 IFAF Men's Flag Football World Championship, believes that the integrity of the sport must be preserved. Team USA has a strong track record, having secured gold in five of the ten IFAF World Championships since 2002. The upcoming championship in Finland will see 32 men’s and 23 women’s national teams compete, further showcasing the global appeal of flag football. Despite the tensions, some NFL players, like Joe Burrow, have expressed a desire to represent the U.S. in the Olympics, highlighting the pride associated with competing on such a prestigious stage. Burrow noted the pressure to secure a gold medal in this inaugural Olympic flag football event, underscoring the stakes involved for both seasoned athletes and newcomers alike.