The 2028 Olympics are still rather far away, and despite that, it will likely be upon us sooner rather than later. This raises the question that has been on many NFL fans’ minds ever since flag football was announced: could they see their favorite players on an international scale playing against other nations’ best? This has been discussed in recent months as the league considers its options and what they may look to do.
A recent report by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network provides some clarity, reporting that NFL owners will be discussing a resolution to the process at this week’s annual league meetings, and this could allow players in the league to participate in the 2028 Olympics. The rules are similar to those of normal American football, the key difference being that it is a five-on-five game being played, with 12 total players on each team. With the Metro Select Saints winning back-to-back boys 15U championships in a row, the New Orleans Saints have some local support to send their own players to the Olympics.
So, could the Saints send anyone realistically among the talent pool of NFL players? There are two players who immediately come to mind on the offensive side of the ball, and with the positional differences being minimal given how few players are on the field, it is all about athletic abilities and being able to do their job well.
Rashid Shaheed would be the most obvious choice, as speed kills, and having a player who can move at the raw pace he does is a killer in any version of the sport. There are few in the NFL who can keep up with him on defense, if any, so pairing him up with the best of the best in the American market against the rest of the world is bound to pan out well.
Additionally, one that may work out well is Alvin Kamara, even despite the lack of running game in many cases. His talents can be displayed in any version of the sport as well, and his elusiveness makes him an asset in a sport where keeping your flags away from opponents is paramount. Given his ability to catch the ball like a wide receiver anyway, that would not be any concern for the offense he is put in.
It will be intriguing to see how this situation resolves itself in the coming days, and if the NFL is willing to allow players from the league to go to the Olympics and compete for their country.
