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9h ago

Team USA Wins Fanatics Flag Football Classic, Outclasses NFL-Led Squads in Los Angeles

The Olympic-style exhibition highlighted a clear skill gap that could shape U.S. roster decisions for LA28.

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 18: Logan Paul looks on as quarterback Tom Brady of the Founders FFC watches during the Fanatics Flag Football Classic Draft at Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills on March 18, 2026 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images for OBB Media - FANATICS STUDIOS)
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Big Picture: Tom Brady Feels 'Great' in Return for Fanatics Flag Football Classic
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 21: Joe Burrow #9 of the Wildcats FFC runs for a touchown during the Fanatics Flag Football Classic at BMO Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images for OBB Media - FANATICS STUDIOS)

Overview

  • Team USA beat the Wildcats 39-14 and the Founders 43-16 in round-robin play, then secured the championship 24-14 over the Wildcats, with Darrell "Housh" Doucette III named MVP.
  • The five-on-five showcase used modified Olympic rules on a 50-by-25-yard field with two 15-minute halves, serving as a preview of the format planned for the 2028 Games.
  • Tom Brady made his first competitive return since retirement, opening with a touchdown to Stefon Diggs as NFL stars and celebrities struggled to match the flag specialists’ speed and technique.
  • Fanatics relocated the event from Riyadh to Los Angeles due to regional conflict and travel concerns, which compressed preparation and produced roster changes including Harrison Smith replacing the injured Derwin James Jr.
  • Fox broadcast the tournament to a star-studded crowd, though TV shots showed many empty seats, and postgame reaction questioned whether NFL players should factor into future Olympic selection over seasoned flag athletes.