The idea of NFL stars suiting up for the Olympics in 2028 has set the football world buzzing. Flag football is making its Olympic debut in Los Angeles, and the possibility of NFL players competing for gold has sparked plenty of excitement — and questions.
While it’s an intriguing prospect, there are hurdles to clear before the league’s top talent can hit the international stage. Here’s everything we know so far.
A Decision Could Come Soon
NFL owners may decide on player participation in the Olympics as early as the spring of 2024. The league plans to update owners about flag football during next week’s meetings in Irving, Texas. A more detailed presentation is scheduled for the annual league meetings in March in Florida. While it’s possible a vote could happen then, the decision might get pushed to future meetings.
Flag football’s Olympic debut in 2028 isn’t just a one-time plan; the NFL wants to cement it as a permanent fixture for future Games, including 2032 in Australia. But getting NFL players involved isn’t as simple as flipping a switch.
Main Issues: Contracts, Money, And Insurance
The NFL’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) doesn’t currently cover international competition. Adding a carve-out for Olympic participation would require amending the CBA, similar to provisions in the NBA and NHL agreements. The NBA’s CBA includes allowances for Olympic play, and the NHL explicitly commits to participating in the Winter Olympics.
NFL player contracts also impose strict restrictions on high-risk activities outside league events. Participating in the Olympics — where injuries can derail careers — would require not only a CBA adjustment but potentially individual contract revisions.
NFL players in the Olympics?! The guys debate on what players would compete in if they were in the Olympics:@Edelman11 pic.twitter.com/tlSsrGJyVT
— Games with Names (@gameswithnames) December 2, 2024
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Insurance is another major hurdle. While NFL players have robust insurance through the league, it may not cover injuries sustained in non-NFL activities like the Olympics. Sources say players taking out personal insurance to cover their multimillion-dollar contracts is unlikely. USA Football, the sport’s governing body, doesn’t have the funds to cover these costs, leaving the NFL and the players’ union to shoulder the responsibility.
The case of Paul George is a cautionary tale. The NBA star suffered a serious leg injury in 2014 while playing in international competition, sidelining him for most of the next season. Both the NFL and NFLPA must decide if the risk is worth it.
Also Read: NFL Pushing To Add Flag Football To Olympics
Health and Safety Concerns
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has made it clear it wants significant input on health and safety issues. Concerns include training schedules, equipment, and even field surfaces. The NFLPA has long pushed for better field conditions in league games and will demand the same standards for Olympic play.
Scheduling Conflicts Loom Large
Timing could be a major stumbling block. The 2028 Olympics will run from July 14–30, overlapping with NFL training camps. Under the current schedule, this period includes key ramp-up activities like padded practices.
Next Woman Up: NFL flag football VP Stephanie Kwok chats with @coralasmith about how quickly the sport has grown in the United States and globally, the Olympics and morehttps://t.co/52zRIq80J2 pic.twitter.com/yuUzwedUu1
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) December 4, 2024
The NFLPA has floated the idea of starting training camp earlier or eliminating some voluntary offseason work. Whether the league will embrace such changes remains uncertain. Additionally, Olympic participation could require months of preparation, including trials and training for flag football’s unique style. Starting this process in early 2028 would disrupt offseason programs while beginning in 2027 would increase liability risks.
Will NFL Owners Get On Board?
Not all team owners are excited about the idea. One prominent owner has already voiced opposition to letting players participate in the Olympics. Owners may balk at the prospect of risking their franchise players’ health for international competition, especially with no financial upside for the teams.
What’s Next?
For now, the league plans to gather all necessary information for owners to make an informed decision in upcoming meetings. While there’s hope for clarity by March, the complexity of these issues makes a longer timeline likely.
If the NFL and NFLPA can iron out the financial, contractual, and scheduling concerns, the prospect of NFL stars competing for Olympic gold could become a reality. Until then, fans will have to wait and see if their favorite players trade helmets for flags on the world stage.
Also Read: Is Berlin Launching An Official Bid To Host NFL Games Starting Next Year?
