When flag football makes its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, many fans might assume the National Football League (NFL) will be calling the shots on which players represent the United States. However, as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell recently clarified, that’s not the case. The selection process falls under the jurisdiction of USA Football, not the NFL, creating an important distinction in the governance of this emerging Olympic sport.
Understanding who decides which athletes will represent Team USA in Olympic flag football is critical for players, coaches, and fans alike. This comprehensive guide examines USA Football’s authority, structure, and selection process for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
USA Football’s role in Olympic flag football selection
As the National Governing Body (NGB) recognized by the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), USA Football possesses the exclusive authority to select the US Olympic flag football team for LA28. Roger Goodell explicitly stated, “That’s actually a function of USA Football that will be making that decision. The NFL will not have any involvement in that selection process.”
This structure mirrors other Olympic sports where professional leagues support national governing bodies but don’t control team selection. It ensures the selection process remains independent and focused on building the most competitive team possible.
Authority and governance
USA Football’s authority stems from its recognition by the USOPC under the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act. This federal legislation provides the legal framework for amateur sports in the United States and empowers the USOPC to recognize organizations that meet specific standards.
As the NGB, USA Football is responsible for all aspects of American football in the US, including the selection, training, and fielding of national teams for international competitions. The organization must adhere to an established framework for sports governance that ensures transparency, athlete representation, and fair selection processes.
Structure and personnel
USA Football operates with a 15-member board of directors. According to the organization’s bylaws, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell appoints three individuals to this board, with at least two serving on the five-person executive committee. The remaining board positions are filled by independent members and Athletes’ Advisory Council representatives.
Key personnel responsible for the Olympic program include:
- Scott Hallenbeck: CEO and Executive Director
- Eric Mayes: Managing Director of High Performance and National Teams
- National Team Head Coaches: Saaid Mortazavi (Women’s Flag) and Jorge Cascudo (Men’s Flag)
- Selection Committee: Comprised of experienced coaches, former players, and administrators
Responsibilities and process
USA Football has established a comprehensive selection system with multiple entry points for potential Olympic athletes. Athletes can qualify for consideration through:
- USA Football Sanctioned Tournaments
- USA Football Hosted Tournaments
- Talent ID Camps
- USA Football Combines
The organization also implements a high-performance strategy that integrates advanced training techniques, sports science, and performance analysis to maximize the teams’ chances for success. This approach ensures that selected athletes receive world-class preparation for Olympic competition.
Timeline and milestones
While the exact timeline for final Olympic team selection is still developing, key milestones include:
- Ongoing talent identification (2025-2027)
- Annual national team training camps
- International competitions, including the IFAF Americas Continental Flag Football Championship
- Olympic team trials (anticipated late 2027-early 2028)
- Final roster announcement (expected mid-2028)
These events will provide opportunities for athletes to demonstrate their skills and make their case for inclusion on the Olympic roster.
NFL’s supporting role
While the NFL doesn’t control team selection, it plays a significant supporting role in Olympic flag football. The league has permitted its players to participate, potentially creating a scenario where NFL players potentially participating in Olympic flag football compete alongside dedicated flag football specialists.
The NFL Foundation provides grants supporting youth flag football programs, and NFL personnel serve on USA Football’s board, offering expertise in areas like marketing and event management. The league also promotes flag football through its Pro Bowl Games and provides facility access for training and development.
Summary
The selection of Team USA’s Olympic flag football team represents a significant milestone in the sport’s development. With USA Football firmly in control of the process, athletes from various backgrounds – including NFL stars and dedicated flag football specialists – will have the opportunity to compete for spots on this historic first Olympic roster.
As the 2028 Los Angeles Games approach, the selection process will serve as a fascinating test of how Olympic ideals and professional sports influence can coexist. The ultimate goal remains fielding the most competitive team possible to represent the United States on the global stage when flag football makes its Olympic debut.
For athletes interested in being considered for the Olympic flag football team, USA Football’s official pathways through sanctioned tournaments, talent ID camps, and combines offer the clearest route to selection.
