Full Breakdown
Fanatics Flag Football Classic Set for Los Angeles
3/21/2026, 1:45:43 AM
Overview of the Event
The Fanatics Flag Football Classic is scheduled to take place on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. ET, broadcasted by Fox. Originally set to occur in Saudi Arabia, the event has been relocated to Los Angeles, marking a significant change in its venue. This year, the format has also been altered; instead of featuring three teams composed of current and former NFL players alongside celebrities, one of the teams will represent the U.S. men’s national flag football team.
Team Rosters and Key Figures
The rosters for the event were finalized through a draft conducted by two teams: the Founders and the Wildcats. The Founders team is led by Tom Brady and Jalen Hurts, featuring notable players such as:
- Ashton Jeanty (Raiders)
- Alvin Kamara (Saints)
- Rob Gronkowski (former Patriots and Buccaneers)
- Antoine Winfield Jr. (Buccaneers)
- DeVonta Smith (Eagles)
- Stefon Diggs (free agent)
- Von Miller (free agent)
- Damar Hamlin (free agent)
- Patrick Peterson (former NFL defensive back)
- Terence Crawford (boxer)
The Wildcats, captained by Jayden Daniels and Joe Burrow, include:
- Saquon Barkley (Eagles)
- Kyle Juszczyk (49ers)
- Odell Beckham Jr. (free agent)
- Davante Adams (Rams)
- DeAndre Hopkins (free agent)
- Derwin James Jr. (Chargers)
- Luke Kuechly (Hall of Fame linebacker)
- Jalen Ramsey (Steelers)
- Logan Paul (social media personality)
- iShowSpeed (content creator)
Notably absent from the rosters are Myles Garrett (Browns) and Deebo Samuel (free agent), who were previously announced as participants.
Leadership of the U.S. Flag Football Team
The U.S. men’s flag football team is led by Darrell “Housh” Doucette III. Doucette has expressed confidence in the team's capabilities, asserting that he is a strong candidate for Olympic representation, especially following the sport's inclusion in the Olympic Games. He emphasized the importance of giving flag football players a fair opportunity to showcase their skills on an international stage.
Implications for Flag Football
The Fanatics Flag Football Classic serves as a platform for flag football players to demonstrate their abilities, potentially influencing future selections for the Olympic team. Doucette's remarks suggest that the event could highlight the distinct skills required for flag football, possibly challenging the notion that traditional NFL players are the best fit for Olympic competition.
Verbatim Quotes
- “More recently, Doucette said he hopes flag players will have a fair shot to represent the country in the Olympics.” — Darrell “Housh” Doucette III.
The Fanatics Flag Football Classic not only showcases the talents of established NFL players but also provides a unique opportunity for flag football athletes to gain recognition and advocate for their sport's place in the Olympic arena.
