The dream of seeing NFL superstars trade their helmets and pads for flags on the world’s biggest athletic stage is moving one step closer to reality. As the sports world looks ahead to the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and former Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III have both gone on the record to express their desire to represent Team USA in Olympic flag football.
Joe Burrow Eyes a Gold Medal in 2028
During a recent appearance on the "Pardon My Take" podcast, Joe Burrow didn't hesitate when asked about the possibility of joining the national team. The Bengals signal-caller, known for his clinical accuracy and poise under pressure, admitted that the prospect of playing Olympic flag football is highly appealing. Burrow noted that the 7-on-7 format of the game aligns well with the skill sets of modern NFL quarterbacks, emphasizing that it would be an incredible experience to compete for a gold medal.
Burrow’s interest is significant because he represents the pinnacle of current NFL talent. While many players have flirted with the idea of Olympic participation, Burrow’s public confirmation adds a layer of legitimacy to the "Dream Team" concept that the NFL and the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) are hoping to build. His participation would likely influence other top-tier players to consider the 2028 Games, potentially creating one of the most star-studded rosters in Olympic history.
Robert Griffin III Ready for a Comeback on the Flag Circuit
While Burrow represents the current generation of NFL stars, Robert Griffin III (RGIII) is proving that the itch to compete never truly goes away. The former Offensive Rookie of the Year and current sports analyst has been vocal on social media and during broadcasts about his readiness to suit up for Team USA. Despite being removed from his playing days in the NFL, Griffin remains in peak physical condition and believes his signature speed and playmaking ability would translate perfectly to the flag football field.
Griffin’s interest brings a different dynamic to the conversation. As a former track star who nearly pursued the Olympics in the 400-meter hurdles, the chance to finally become an Olympian in a football capacity would bring his athletic career full circle. Griffin has argued that his experience in both the NFL and as a high-level sprinter makes him a unique candidate for the fast-paced, space-oriented nature of Olympic flag football.
The Rise of Olympic Flag Football
The inclusion of flag football in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics marks a historic milestone for the sport. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially added the discipline to the program as part of an effort to bring more youth-oriented and culturally relevant sports to the Games. For the NFL, this represents a massive opportunity to expand its global footprint and showcase its athletes to an international audience that may not follow the traditional 11-on-11 contact game.
The Olympic format will feature 7-on-7 play on a shorter field, emphasizing speed, agility, and precision passing. Because there is no tackling, the risk of significant injury is lower than in the standard NFL game, which is a major factor for active players like Burrow who must consider their professional commitments. However, the timing of the Games—usually held in late July and August—coincides directly with NFL training camps, posing a logistical hurdle that the league and the NFL Players Association will need to address.
Building the Ultimate Team USA Roster
Burrow and Griffin are far from the only names linked to the 2028 squad. Since the announcement of flag football’s inclusion, stars like Tyreek Hill, Patrick Mahomes, and Micah Parsons have all expressed varying levels of interest. The competition for the final roster spots will be intense, as Team USA will have to balance active NFL superstars with established flag football specialists who have spent years mastering the specific nuances of the non-contact game.
The NFL has been a staunch supporter of the initiative, with executive Peter O'Reilly previously stating that the league will work with clubs and players to facilitate participation where possible. For fans, the idea of Burrow throwing deep balls to Tyreek Hill while RGIII utilizes his legs in a relief role is a tantalizing prospect that could make flag football one of the most-watched events of the LA28 Games.
What Happens Next?
As we inch closer to 2028, the selection process for Team USA will become more defined. Currently, USA Football oversees the national teams and will likely be responsible for holding trials and coordinate with the NFL. While active players like Joe Burrow will have to navigate their contract obligations and team permissions, the groundswell of support from the league’s biggest names suggests that the 2028 Olympic flag football tournament will be an unprecedented showcase of American football talent.
Sources & Original Reporting