Josh Allen Expresses Enthusiasm for Team USA Flag Football Opportunity at 2028 Olympics
Josh Allen says he would be very – While the FIFA World Cup captures headlines throughout the Americas, a different football phenomenon is steadily gaining momentum. As the 2028 Summer Olympics approach, flag football has quickly risen to become one of the most eagerly awaited new additions to the Olympic program. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell recently voiced his enthusiasm regarding this development and disclosed that numerous athletes are keen on showcasing their talents for their nations on the Olympic platform.
League Leadership Sees Growing Player Interest
Goodell shared his perspective during a recent appearance on ESPN’s “Women’s Sports Now” program. He noted that conversations with various athletes have revealed strong interest in Olympic participation. “I’ve had a lot of players that have said, ‘We want to participate in that,'” the commissioner explained. He emphasized that these competitors naturally gravitate toward prestigious events and would value Olympic recognition highly. “These players are competitors, and they love the big stage. To win a gold medal or any medal is something I think they would all treasure. They talk about it all the time.”
Based on these discussions, Goodell expressed confidence that NFL representation at the upcoming Games is virtually certain. “So, I absolutely believe we’re going to have players in the Olympics,” he stated firmly.
Allen’s Olympic Ambitions Take Shape
Josh Allen, who earned 2024 NFL MVP honors, has positioned himself among active league athletes interested in representing the United States at the Los Angeles Games. Speaking with Fox News Digital on behalf of Natrol, the Buffalo Bills signal-caller confirmed his interest. “I’m interested,” Allen stated simply. The sleep-aid company recently unveiled an expanded collaboration with the quarterback, providing another platform for his public statements.
Allen has observed flag football competitions and developed genuine appreciation for the sport’s distinctive demands. He reflected on his potential Olympic prospects, noting that skill compatibility remains an open question. “I’ve always thought it would be really cool to compete for my country. Now, if I have the skill set, that’s a different story.”
Describing what he observed on television, Allen highlighted the unique movement patterns of flag football players. “I watched (flag football) not too long ago when it was on TV. Those guys just kind of move different. Their hips are dipping a foot down and they’re able to evade.” He acknowledged his own strengths lie elsewhere on the field. “I can throw with the best of them. But I’m better at usually running through people than spinning and getting around them.”
“We will see. I’d be very honored to do it,” Allen said regarding the possibility of Olympic competition.
Timeline and League Preparations
Goodell pointed out that the Olympic schedule offers an ideal opportunity for NFL athletes to participate. Flag football competitions are positioned to occur before training camps commence, creating a natural window for player availability. The commissioner anticipates that both current roster members and potentially recently retired veterans will compete when the sport debuts at the Games.
The 2028 Summer Olympics are scheduled to commence in mid-July. Earlier developments include a May 2025 resolution presented to NFL team owners, which would permit one player from each roster to participate in the Olympic tournament. This legislation includes provisions for international players to represent their home countries without counting against the allocation.
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