NFL Plans Men’s & Women’s Pro Flag Football Leagues
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NFL Announces Plans for Professional Flag Football Leagues Ahead of 2028 Olympics
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The National Football League intends to launch professional men’s and women’s flag football leagues in preparation for flag football’s debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Last updated: 2025/10/03 00:20:29
Overview
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the league’s plans to establish professional men’s and women’s flag football leagues during a sports conference in London on October 2, 2025, as reported by the Chicago Tribune. This initiative aims to capitalize on the growing popularity of flag football and its inclusion as a medal sport in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Goodell’s Announcement
Speaking at the Leaders in Sport gathering at Twickenham Stadium in London, Roger Goodell stated, “We’re committed to creating a women’s professional league and a men’s professional flag league.” He further noted meaningful interest in the venture, signaling a strong likelihood of successful league formation. The announcement underscores the NFL’s strategic expansion beyond traditional tackle football.
Flag Football and the Olympics
Flag football was officially added to the program for the 2028 Summer olympics in Los Angeles in October 2023. The International olympic Committee (IOC) approved the inclusion, recognizing the sport’s growing global appeal and accessibility. The Olympic format will feature teams of five players competing in a fast-paced, non-contact version of american football.

Scoring in Flag Football
Flag football shares many similarities with traditional American football, but with key differences. Instead of tackling, players wear flags, and a “tackle” occurs when an opponent pulls off a flag. Scoring is similar to tackle football:
- Touchdown: 6 points
- Extra Point (from 50-yard line): 1 point
- Two-Point Conversion (from 10
