NFL Announces Professional Flag Football Leagues for 2028 Olympics

The National Football League (NFL) is making bold moves to expand its reach and foster inclusivity. They’re launching professional flag football leagues for both women and men. Commissioner Roger Goodell announced this initiative ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where flag football will debut.

This push is part of a bigger strategy to attract younger fans and grow the sport worldwide. The NFL also plans to ramp up its international presence by hosting more games abroad.

NFL’s Commitment to Flag Football

The introduction of professional flag football leagues marks a big moment for the NFL. Goodell says the leagues should launch within the next couple of years, lining up with the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

The league wants to prioritize flag football because it can pull in a diverse, younger audience. “We’re committed to creating a women’s professional league, and a men’s professional flag league,” Goodell said. He stressed the NFL’s dedication to inclusivity and growth.

Why Flag Football?

Flag football is a non-contact version of American football. That makes it more accessible and appealing to a wider group of people.

The game is especially popular with younger players and often serves as an entry point to traditional football. By building a clear pathway from youth leagues to the pros, the NFL wants to create a sustainable system. “The demand is there. We’re seeing colleges in the states and universities internationally also that want to make it a part of their program,” Goodell said.

Infrastructure and Development

The NFL plans to set up strong infrastructure to support player development at every level. Here’s what’s on the table:

• Youth leagues: Start flag football early to build skills and spark interest.
• High school programs: Give young players chances for competitive play and skill growth.
• College leagues: Expand flag football in colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad.
• Professional leagues: Launch pro leagues for women and men, creating a real career path for athletes.

Global Expansion of the NFL

The NFL is also pushing hard on international expansion. This season, they’ve already set a record by hosting seven games outside the U.S.—six in Europe and one in Brazil.

They’re planning a return to Mexico City soon, as renovations at Azteca Stadium are nearly finished for the 2026 World Cup.

Upcoming International Games

Goodell has big plans to bump the number of international games up to 16. New regions are on the horizon, with Australia already locked in for a game next season.

“If you’re going to be global, you have to do it beyond Europe, beyond the Americas,” Goodell said. The league is also eyeing opportunities in Asia.

Potential Locations in Asia

The NFL hasn’t revealed specific spots in Asia yet, but their interest is obvious. Officials are staying quiet about possible host cities, but it fits their drive to globalize the sport.

By breaking into new markets, the NFL hopes to grow its fan base and make football more popular worldwide. They’re not shy about aiming big here.

The Unifying Power of Football

All these moves highlight how sports can bring people together. Goodell and Cleveland Browns co-owner Jimmy Haslam both talked about football’s ability to unite communities, even when times are tense.

“We read about different issues and we see the different things that go on in politics and otherwise … and unfortunately negative things like war,” Goodell said. “Again, I think football — and sports in general — I do think bring communities together. That’s a positive thing that we need a little more of.”

Shared Experiences

Haslam agreed, saying sports can cut through political divides. “The U.S. is extremely divided today politically,” he said.

“The great thing about sports is, no matter who I voted for or who you voted for … for the three hours or two hours we’re watching that game, we’re rooting for our team, and that’s all we care about.” That shared experience can create unity and a real sense of community. Sometimes, that’s exactly what people need.

Conclusion

The NFL wants to launch professional flag football leagues and push its reach across the globe. It’s a pretty big step in how the sport is growing.

They’re trying to open up the game to more people and build better ways for players to develop. That means new markets, new fans, and honestly, a much more diverse crowd than before.