Full Breakdown
Sean Payton Questions NFL Players' Viability for 2028 Olympic Flag Football Team
3/31/2026, 10:22:57 PM
Overview of the Flag Football Showcase
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton recently expressed skepticism regarding the inclusion of NFL players on the United States flag football team for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This sentiment emerged after Payton coached the Founders FFC team, which included notable players such as Tom Brady, during the Fanatics Flag Football Classic. The Founders FFC team faced significant defeats, losing 43-16 to Team USA and 34-26 to another team led by NFL coaches Kyle Shanahan and Joe Burrow.
Payton's Insights on the Transition to Flag Football
Payton articulated that the transition from traditional tackle football to the Olympic flag format poses unique challenges. He noted, “I think when this first was announced, there was this feeling there would be 10 NFL players on that roster, and I’ll be surprised if there’s one.” He emphasized that while there are players capable of adapting, the necessary acclimatization period of one to two months conflicts with their NFL training schedules.
Performance Discrepancies
The performance of the Founders FFC team highlighted a skill gap between NFL players and the Team USA flag football squad, which consists of non-NFL players. Payton likened the experience to the "Home Alone" movies, where he felt like the characters being outmatched. He stated, “It’s an entirely different game,” underscoring the strategic nuances of flag football that differ from the NFL.
Perspectives from Team USA
Despite Payton's doubts, Team USA's coach Jorge Cascudo noted that veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. showed enough promise during the tournament to be considered for the Olympic roster. Cascudo remarked, “I could see Odell Beckham Jr. earning a spot on the Team USA flag football roster for the 2028 Olympics,” indicating that while NFL players may struggle, some individuals could potentially excel.
Broader Implications for Women's Flag Football
Payton also highlighted the positive impact of the flag football format on women's participation in the sport. He remarked that the event provides an avenue for female athletes to engage in football, which is crucial for the sport's growth. The recruitment efforts for the women's team are reportedly looking at NCAA basketball players, particularly point guards, who possess the agility and quickness suited for flag football.
Official Statements & Responses
Payton's comments reflect a broader concern among NFL coaches regarding the feasibility of transitioning to flag football at an Olympic level. Both he and Shanahan acknowledged the need for strategic preparation, with Shanahan stating, “We’d have to really look at it” to compete effectively against teams like Team USA.
What's Next for Olympic Flag Football
As the 2028 Olympics approach, the Team USA coaching staff will continue to evaluate potential players, including NFL stars, while addressing the challenges of adapting to the flag football format. The anticipation surrounding the Olympic debut of flag football remains high, yet Payton's insights suggest that the participation of NFL players may be limited.
