NFL owners unanimously approve players' participation in flag football at 2028 Olympics

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

There is now a heavy favorite in the flag football competition at the 2028 Summer Olympics.

NFL owners unanimously approved a motion Tuesday that allows NFL players to participate in the summer games.

Flag football is making its first appearance three years from now when the Olympics return to Los Angeles for the first time since 1984.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

NFC receiver Malik Nabers of the New York Gaints (1) and tight end Trey McBride of the Arizona Cardinals (85) celebrate after a touchdown during the 2025 Pro Bowl Games at Camping World Stadium.  (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)

"Players have expressed to us a great desire for the honor of competing in the Olympics, and we're excited that our members will be able to represent their country on the highest international stage," NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell said in a statement. "We look forward to working with the league, IFAF and Olympic authorities on the terms of their participation to ensure players who compete will do so with protections to their health, safety and job."

When he heard the news he'd be allowed to participate, Justin Jefferson said he was "at a loss for words."

"To think about the chance of playing in the Olympics and getting a gold medal, it’s a dream," he said.

The league has experimented with flag football, replacing its Pro Bowl with skill competitions, including a flag football game.

NFC wide receiver Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings (18) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the AFC in the 2023 Pro Bowl at Allegiant Stadium.  (Lucas Peltier/USA Today Sports)

NFL OWNERS TO DISCUSS REVISED TUSH PUSH BAN, PLAYOFF