Best flag football candidate from each NFL team for the 2028 Olympics

With flag football set to debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics at BMO Stadium, the NFL’s decision to allow players to participate opens the door to a thrilling, fast-paced showcase of American football talent on a global stage. Unlike traditional football, flag emphasizes agility, quick decision-making, and open-field finesse skills many NFL stars possess in abundance. Selecting one player from each of the 32 NFL teams reveals a fascinating mix of athleticism and versatility that could dominate the Olympic spotlight.

NFL’s top pick from every franchise

Flag football strips down the traditional elements of tackle football, emphasizing finesse over brute force. This means the ideal player is not necessarily the strongest or most physical, but the quickest thinker and sharpest mover.

BREAKING: NFL owners approved a resolution that will allow NFL players to participate in the Olympics, which will include flag football for the first time in 2028🚨

This is a huge news for NFL players who are interested in playing flag football at the upcoming Olympics. pic.twitter.com/1sFCbOlYpP

— Football Forever (@fballforeverhq) May 20, 2025

As flag football gears up for its Olympic debut , the NFL boasts a wealth of talent tailor-made for the format. From dual-threat quarterbacks to agile defenders, these 32 players, one from each team, stand out as prime candidates to represent the U.S. on the world stage.

Quarterbacks are central in flag football, and the league is rich with dynamic options. Lamar Jackson (Ravens), Jalen Hurts (Eagles), and C.J. Stroud (Texans) bring a dual-threat style perfectly
suited to flag football’s open format. Josh Allen (Bills) and Anthony Richardson (Colts) offer big arms and the mobility to extend plays, while young talents like Stroud give Team USA future-proof firepower.

At wide receiver, speed and route-running rule. Tyreek Hill (Dolphins) remains the fastest player in the league, an absolute mismatch in flag football. Justin Jefferson (Vikings), Ja’Marr Chase (Bengals), and Davante Adams (Raiders) are elite playmakers, while up-and-comers like Garrett Wilson (Jets), Amon-Ra St. Brown (Lions), Chris Olave (Saints), and George Pickens (Steelers) round out a receiving corps that would be nearly impossible to cover.

Running backs and tight ends bring multidimensional threats. Christian McCaffrey (49ers) is the ultimate all-purpose back, while Isiah Pacheco (Chiefs) and Travis Etienne Jr. (Jaguars) add burst and balance. Saquon Barkley (Giants) and D.J. Moore (Bears), both dangerous after the catch, could thrive in the flag format. Kyle Pitts (Falcons), with his size and receiver-like skill set, offers another matchup nightmare.

Defensively, coverage and quick reaction are key. Micah Parsons (Cowboys), Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (Browns), and Derwin James (Chargers) can defend, rush, and read plays in a heartbeat. Patrick Surtain II (Broncos), Jaire Alexander (Packers), Jaycee Horn (Panthers), Devon Witherspoon (Seahawks), and Christian Gonzalez (Patriots) offer lockdown coverage skills essential in a contact-free game. Safeties like Budda Baker (Cardinals) and Antoine Winfield Jr. (Buccaneers) bring leadership and range.

Also read: Joe Burrow aims to bring prime-time balance and global reach to Bengals' NFL schedule

Each player adds a unique skill set, and together they’d form a team nearly unbeatable in Olympic flag football . The 2028 Games won’t just be about medals they’ll showcase a new, electrifying brand of football to the world.