Early on Tuesday morning, NFL Insider Adam Schefter broke the information that the NFL was getting nearer to permitting its gamers to affix Workforce USA flag soccer for the 2028 Olympics. That call grew to become official afterward within the day.
NFL gamers are getting their want. Justin Jefferson stated that he was at a “loss for phrases” when he came upon the information that he would get a possibility to win a gold medal on the Olympics. We’re nonetheless a couple of years away, however NFL gamers will likely be included within the video games, which is able to occur in Los Angeles. This would be the first time flag soccer will likely be part of the Olympics.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell spoke concerning the resolution on Tuesday.
“It is an unimaginable honor for any athlete to signify their nation within the Olympics, which is the head of worldwide sport,” Goodell stated. “I do know first-hand that the inclusion of flag soccer within the Olympics has sparked an incredible quantity of pleasure amongst NFL gamers within the likelihood to compete for his or her nation on the world stage. We’re thrilled that they may now have that likelihood.”
Flag soccer on the Olympics will likely be in good arms with NFL gamers becoming a member of. Workforce USA will clearly be the favourite to win, barring any gamers becoming a member of different nations. That may be a matter for an additional day. Will NFL gamers from different nations be allowed to affix their respective nations?
The format will likely be five-on-five. A real roster of 12 is not going to be set till after the 2027-28 season, however speculating who might current America within the Purple, White, and Blue will likely be thrilling till it comes. Let’s check out who could possibly be on the roster. Neither offensive nor defensive linemen are allowed to take part.
Quarterbacks
There are two QBs that clearly stand out for one thing like this. Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson. These two have 4 of the final seven MVPs and are two of the most effective playmakers within the NFL.
Jackson is arguably the best speeding quarterback of all time already in his profession. He would give opposing flag footballers hassle in free area. It nearly would not be far.
The identical could possibly be stated about Mahomes. Mahomes has the aptitude and IQ to make each throw conceivable. He has the arm energy and accuracy to maneuver the ball down the sector with open area, with ease.
Different notable QBs are reigning MVP winner Josh Allen, reigning Tremendous Bowl and Tremendous Bowl MVP winner Jalen Hurts, Joe Burrow, Jayden Daniels, Justin Herbert, and Kyler Murray. It is arduous to think about some other QB making the checklist over these names.
Working backs
That is an fascinating place for flag soccer. You solely have 4 downs to attain. Due to this fact, operating the ball will likely be uncommon, if even allowed. You want fast receiving backs for this sort of sport. Jahmyr Gibbs, Bijan Robinson, and James Cook dinner stand out to me. These three are elite with area, and opposing defenders can have a tough time grabbing the flag with their elusiveness. Extra RBs will floor up till 2028, nonetheless, these names are nonetheless 25 or youthful. Christian McCaffery will likely be 32 when the Olympics begin. The roster could solely take one RB, possibly two.
Huge receivers
That is the bread and butter of flag soccer. The receiver place which can be the toughest to foretell. The Minnesota Vikings comprise among the finest receivers within the NFL. Jefferson, who was talked about earlier about his loss for phrases, looks like a terrific candidate for a roster spot. Ja’Mar Chase, CeeDee Lamb, Amon-Ra St. Brown, A.J. Brown, Malik Nabers, Travis Hunter, and Brian Thomas Jr. might all be worthy of creating the group. The NFL is full of gifted receivers who’re all younger and of their prime.
Tyreek Hill is already 31 years outdated. He has expressed curiosity in enjoying flag soccer; nonetheless, at 34, when it occurs, who is aware of what his profession will appear like by then.
Tight ends
The group could usher in one tight finish. It is not official that any will be part of, however a couple of might. Brock Bowers is the one who stands out essentially the most. Bowers was eighth within the NFL in receiving yards final season as a rookie. He can be a matchup nightmare for all defenses on the Olympics.
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Cross rushers
Defensive linemen will not be allowed to play. Nonetheless, some linebackers could be part of. It will not be many, however one or two who’re elite and speeding the passer might make the roster. A most of two go rushers can rush the QB, so that could be of technique. Micah Parsons involves thoughts right here. He can rush the QB in addition to anybody and is fast, which is required in area. Fred Warner involves thoughts as properly, as you want somebody who can intercept the ball. He has had seven since 2022.
Defensive backs
This will even be a place of main want within the Olympics. With the ability to shut down opposing receivers from different nations will likely be essential.
Patrick Surtain II, Derek Stingley Jr., Trevon Diggs, Tyson Campbell, Travis Hunter (each side), and Jaylon Johnson are nice candidates for cornerbacks. At security, Kerby Joseph, Antoine Winfield Jr, and Derwin James come to thoughts. James is a superb participant to have, as he’s elite at speeding the QB.
Constructing the Finest 12-Man Roster for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles
QB- Mahomes, Jackson
RB – Gibbs, Robinson (alternate)
WR – Jefferson, Chase, Nabers, Hunter (Each methods), Lamb (Alternate)
Rusher – Parsons
DB – James, Joseph, Surtain II, Diggs, Hunter (Each methods)
Notice: I assume there will likely be some alternates in case of accidents. I listed two.