Full Breakdown
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Envisions Olympic Glory with Tom Brady in Flag Football
2/3/2026, 10:27:11 PM
Jaxon Smith-Njigba's Olympic Aspirations
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has expressed a strong desire to compete in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. During a media event for Super Bowl LX, he confirmed his interest in representing the United States in this newly added Olympic sport. When asked about his ideal teammate, Smith-Njigba named New York Jets receiver Garrett Wilson, a close friend from their time at Ohio State University. He also mentioned the possibility of playing alongside legendary quarterback Tom Brady, stating, “I think Tom Brady, you know, him coming back, maybe. That would be awesome.”
The Flag Football Landscape
Flag football will make its Olympic debut in 2028, with the NFL having approved player participation. The format consists of 5-on-5 teams, with each roster limited to 10 players. The United States has a strong history in the sport, having won both the men's and women's world championships in 2024. However, the competition for roster spots is expected to be intense, as many NFL players are eager to represent their country. Notably, quarterback Darrell Doucette, who has led the U.S. to recent world titles, has voiced opposition to NFL players taking spots on the Olympic team.
Smith-Njigba's Rising Star
At just 23 years old, Smith-Njigba has quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the NFL. Drafted 20th overall by the Seahawks in 2023, he achieved Pro Bowl status in his rookie season, recording 63 catches for 628 yards and four touchdowns. His performance improved significantly in 2024, with 100 receptions for 1,130 yards and six touchdowns, earning him a second Pro Bowl selection. This season, he has led the league with 119 receptions for 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Seahawks' offense.
Criticism & Opposition
While Smith-Njigba's enthusiasm for playing with Brady is notable, there are concerns regarding the inclusion of NFL players in the Olympic flag football team. Doucette's opposition highlights a potential divide between traditional flag football players and those from the NFL, raising questions about the integrity and competitive balance of the sport at the Olympic level.
What's Next
As the 2028 Olympics approach, the selection process for the U.S. flag football team will be closely watched. With only 10 spots available, the competition among NFL players, including Smith-Njigba, will be fierce. The upcoming Fanatics Flag Football Classic, where Brady is set to participate, may serve as a precursor to the Olympic event, showcasing the sport's growing popularity and the caliber of athletes involved.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think Tom Brady, you know, him coming back, maybe. That would be awesome.” — Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seattle Seahawks Wide Receiver
- “The NFL has approved player participation in flag football at the 2028 Olympics, but it is unclear how the rosters would be structured.” — Source Unspecified
- “With only 10 spots available on the team, the push to earn spots will be fascinating to watch.” — Source Unspecified
Smith-Njigba's aspirations reflect a broader trend of NFL players seeking to expand their athletic legacies, potentially marking a new chapter in the intersection of professional football and international competition.
