The inclusion of flag football in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is seen by many as a golden opportunity for the NFL to expand its global footprint. However, Green Bay Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst is urging caution, joining a number of league officials voicing concerns about the potential risks.
While flag football has been added as an optional event in the upcoming Olympic Games, the NFL recently confirmed that professional players will be eligible to participate and represent Team USA.
Although Gutekunst acknowledges the honor of representing one’s country, he’s not in favor of NFL players taking part.
“I think overall, [flag football in the Olympics is] a great thing,” Gutekunst told ESPN. “I’d love it if we kept the NFL players out of it.”
So far, there have been no cases of NFL athletes getting injured in Olympic competition, but there are examples of players suffering serious injuries while playing flag football recreationally. One of the most notable incidents involved former New England Patriots Pro Bowl running back Robert Edwards, who sustained a severe knee and ligament injury during a flag football game. The injury significantly impacted his professional career.
As of now, no members of the Green Bay Packers have committed to participating in the 2028 Games, giving Gutekunst some immediate relief. Nonetheless, his concerns highlight a growing debate over balancing national representation and player safety.
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