Flag football is officially headed to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, and with that announcement comes a dream scenario for football fans: a potential Team USA roster stacked with NFL stars.
But here’s the twist—only one player per NFL team will be eligible to join the Olympic squad. That raises a fascinating question: who actually makes the cut?
Top NFL stars at the Olympics: Mahomes, Hill, Jefferson, and More
Patrick Mahomes has already expressed interest in donning red, white, and blue, and it’s hard to imagine a better fit for flag football. His creativity, mobility, and lightning-quick release seem tailor-made for the fast-paced, non-contact format.
His former teammate, Tyreek Hill, is another ideal candidate. Hill’s game-breaking speed and ability to create separation in space could make him borderline unstoppable under flag football rules. “Cheetah” on a 7-on-7 Olympic field? Yes, please.
Justin Jefferson, one of the most electrifying receivers in the NFL, has also made his Olympic ambitions clear, calling it a “dream come true” to represent Team USA and go for gold.
On the defensive side, Micah Parsons is already fantasizing about forming a “dream team” to take the podium. Given his athleticism and versatility, Parsons could disrupt plays all over the field in a flag format.
Other names to watch
Lamar Jackson is a name that keeps surfacing—and for good reason. His dual-threat ability makes him a nightmare in any setting, but in flag football, his elusiveness could be even more devastating.
Ja’Marr Chase, Saquon Barkley, and Travis Hunter round out the list of exciting prospects. Hunter in particular stands out—not only is he a dynamic receiver, but he also plays cornerback, offering rare two-way versatility that could be crucial on a small Olympic roster.
Will the Dream Team become a reality?
As exciting as it is to imagine NFL superstars running wild at the Olympics, they’re not guaranteed spots.
Veteran flag football athletes like Darrell Doucette have noted that there’s a learning curve. NFL players will need to adapt to the unique pace and strategy of the sport, with less contact, quicker decision-making, and more finesse.
Still, the thought of seeing Mahomes throwing touchdowns to Jefferson—or Lamar juking his way past international defenses—is enough to get fans buzzing.
So, who makes the cut? It’s too early to say. But one thing’s for sure: Team USA’s Olympic flag football roster could be one of the most entertaining lineups we’ve ever seen.