Burrow and RGIII: Flag Football's Star-Powered Olympic Dream
Joe Burrow wants in. Robert Griffin III wants in. That’s the headline, right? Both quarterbacks, fresh off their NFL seasons (or, in RGIII’s case, his broadcasting duties), have openly stated they’d love a shot at Olympic flag football for Team USA. And frankly, it makes perfect sense. This isn’t some backyard toss; we’re talking about a legitimate athletic endeavor making its debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Key Analysis
Burrow, the guy who led the Bengals to Super Bowl LVI in just his second season, dropped the bombshell on "The Pat McAfee Show" earlier this year. He said, "I’m a big fan of flag football. If I’m not still playing in the NFL, I’d love to play flag football in the Olympics." That’s a big "if," considering he signed a five-year, $275 million extension last September, but the desire is real. You don't get that kind of money without an insatiable competitive fire. The man threw for 4,475 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2022. He’s got the arm, the accuracy, and the smarts for flag.
Then there’s RGIII. The former Heisman Trophy winner and 2012 Offensive Rookie of the Year tweeted, "I’m putting my name in the hat to try and make the Olympic Flag Football team for 2028." Griffin’s NFL career was unfortunately cut short by injuries, but his athleticism was legendary. Remember his rookie year with Washington? He threw for 3,200 yards, ran for 815, and scored 27 total touchdowns. He was a human highlight reel. That kind of speed and agility translates beautifully to flag football, where evasion and quick bursts are king.
Breaking It Down
Here’s the thing: USA Football, the sport’s national governing body, has already been scouting talent. They held trials. They’ve got a system. But Burrow and Griffin aren't just "talent." They're bona fide superstars. Their involvement would immediately elevate the profile of the sport, drawing eyeballs that might otherwise ignore flag football. Imagine the sponsorship dollars, the media coverage. It’s a no-brainer for the Olympic committee to push for their inclusion, even if it means some special consideration down the line.
Look, some purists might grumble about "celebrity" athletes taking spots from players who've dedicated their lives to flag football. And I get it. There are incredibly talented flag players out there who deserve recognition. But this isn’t about denying anyone a chance. This is about growing the game on a global stage. The Olympics are about spectacle, and few things are more spectacular than seeing NFL-caliber quarterbacks slinging it in a new format.
What This Means
My hot take? If Burrow is healthy and available in 2028, he makes the team, no questions asked. His precision and field vision are exactly what you need in a five-on-five format where every yard matters. RGIII is a slightly tougher call given his time away from playing, but his athleticism could still be a huge asset. I think he’d make a strong case as well, perhaps even as a dual-threat option that coaches would love to have.
The US men’s flag football team is already a powerhouse, having won multiple IFAF World Championships. Adding a player of Burrow’s caliber would be like giving a Ferrari an even bigger engine. And honestly, it would be awesome to watch.
Looking Ahead
I predict that by the time the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics roll around, at least one current or recent NFL starting quarterback will be on the Team USA flag football roster.