In a landmark decision that could reshape the global profile of American football, NFL owners have unanimously approved the participation of league players in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
The approval, announced during the NFL’s annual spring meetings in Minnesota, marks a significant step toward integrating NFL talent into the Olympic Games. It also signals the league’s growing commitment to promoting the sport on a global stage, especially through the fast-growing, accessible version of the game—flag football.
Olympic Flag Football Gains NFL Backing
With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirming flag football as part of the LA28 program, the NFL’s decision now allows for formal coordination with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), the international flag football governing body (IFAF), and Olympic organizers. Discussions will focus on scheduling logistics and player safety to ensure smooth integration without conflicting with the NFL season.
“This is an unprecedented opportunity to showcase some of the world’s best athletes in a format that’s fast, exciting, and deeply strategic,” said one NFL executive. “Flag football at the Olympics is a platform to grow the sport worldwide, and our players want to be part of that legacy.”
Each NFL franchise will be allowed to nominate only one player for Olympic selection. National governing bodies in participating countries will then select final 10-player rosters. The format will feature six national teams per gender, competing in a 5-on-5 game on a 50-yard field, offering a fast-paced and dynamic experience for global audiences.
With the Olympics scheduled from July 14 to 30, 2028, the flag football final could take place just before NFL teams report for preseason training camps. The proposed timeline is already drawing support from league executives and players, as it aligns with the offseason period, making participation feasible without major disruptions.
Tryouts and team camps for Olympic-bound athletes will likely occur during quiet periods in the NFL offseason, allowing star players to prepare while remaining within their contractual and health guidelines.
‘Tush Push’ Ban Debate Heats Up
While the Olympic vote sailed through, the NFL meetings weren’t without controversy. A renewed proposal to ban the infamous “tush push” play ignited heated discussion among owners.
The play—popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles with quarterback Jalen Hurts—sees multiple offensive players push the ball carrier, typically the QB, from behind during short-yardage scenarios. Critics argue the tactic resembles a rugby scrum and deviates from the traditional aesthetics of American football.
A new proposal from the Green Bay Packers seeks to outlaw all forms of player-assisted advancement, including pushing, pulling, lifting, or encircling the runner. The suggested penalty for infractions would be a 10-yard loss, reinstating a rule that was scrapped two decades ago due to enforcement difficulties.
“The issue is not just player safety, though that’s a concern,” said one AFC team executive. “It’s about maintaining the integrity and style of the game. Plays like the tush push may be effective, but they don’t reflect the kind of football fans love to see.”
Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie remains one of the tactic’s most vocal defenders.
“Aesthetics in football have always evolved. When the forward pass was introduced, it faced enormous pushback. Now it’s the backbone of the game. This play is no different—it’s smart strategy, well-executed, and completely legal under current rules,” Lurie said.
While there’s no definitive evidence linking the tush push to an increase in injuries, several franchises, including the Buffalo Bills, have raised concerns over potential long-term risks.
A decision on the proposal would require at least 24 of the league’s 32 teams to vote in favor. While consensus has yet to be reached, Commissioner Roger Goodell said he is “hopeful” that owners will find common ground on the issue before the start of the 2025 NFL season.
The debate will likely intensify ahead of the Monday Night Football clash on November 10, when the Packers host the Eagles—two teams expected to contend for NFC playoff spots. The matchup could serve as a showcase, or a flashpoint, depending on whether the rule change is enacted before then.
Lions Propose Major Change to Playoff Seeding
Beyond Olympic flag football and the tush push debate, another proposal making waves at the Minnesota meetings came from the Detroit Lions. The Lions have proposed a revamp of the playoff seeding format to prioritize overall win-loss records over division titles.
If adopted, this change would eliminate the guaranteed playoff berth for division winners, a rule that has occasionally rewarded weaker teams with home-field advantage despite underwhelming records.
A prime example came last season when the Los Angeles Rams earned a playoff home game with a modest record simply because they won a weaker division. Critics argue this undermines competitive fairness and dilutes the quality of playoff matchups.
“This is about rewarding consistency and performance over the course of the season,” said a Lions representative. “Winning a weak division shouldn’t outweigh a strong record earned in a tougher one.”
The proposal is currently under review by the league’s competition committee and could be voted on during the next round of owners’ meetings.
Onside Kick Rules Also Up for Review
In addition, the NFL is exploring changes aimed at improving the success rate of onside kicks. The competition committee is reviewing data and testing various models, including alternate formations and kickoff strategies, to make comeback attempts more viable late in games.
As the league evolves to attract global audiences and modernize the game, owners appear increasingly open to innovation—whether through Olympic participation, playoff format restructuring, or revisiting controversial plays like the tush push.
The next several months will be pivotal as these proposals take shape and shape the future of American football on both domestic and international stages.
