Overview
- Derwin James Jr., speaking Sunday, urged active NFL players to pass on the 2028 Olympic flag football event because he sees too much injury risk.
- He said the sharp cuts and rapid changes of direction in flag football strain joints, and he prefers that retired or late‑career players represent the U.S.
- James added that practice‑squad players should skip the Olympics to focus on earning active NFL roster spots.
- The push follows the March 21 Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Los Angeles, where Team USA’s specialists routed NFL‑star teams and exposed a gap in speed, rules knowledge, and technique.
- Some stars still want in, with Joe Burrow saying Olympic flag football has been a lifelong dream and a chance at a special gold medal opportunity.