Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans is contemplating the opportunity to represent Team USA in flag football when it makes its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced in October 2023 that men's and women's flag football will be included in the upcoming Olympics, marking a significant milestone for the sport.
Flag football will be played in a non-tackling format on a 50-yard field measuring 25 yards in width, featuring two 10-yard end zones. This streamlined version of football aims to showcase the skills of athletes while prioritizing safety. The inclusion of flag football reflects a growing trend to diversify the sports featured in the Olympic program, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
Evans, who has established himself as one of the NFL's elite receivers, has expressed interest in participating in the Olympic event, particularly if he is retired by then. As he approaches his 35th birthday just a month before the Games, Evans sees this as a unique chance to add an Olympic experience to his already illustrious career. He has already participated in the Pro Bowl's new flag football format for the past two years, providing him with valuable experience in this variant of the game.
With a remarkable record tied with Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, Evans boasts 11 consecutive seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards. Additionally, he holds the distinction of scoring 105 regular-season touchdowns, the most in the league since 2014. His impressive accolades also include being a six-time Pro Bowler and the all-time leading scorer for the Buccaneers.
The Olympic inclusion of flag football has generated enthusiasm among players. Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been appointed as the global flag football ambassador by the International Federation of American Football, further promoting the sport's visibility. Other NFL stars, including wide receiver Tyreek Hill, have also expressed their desire to compete in the Olympic flag football tournament.
Historically, tackle football made its Olympic debut as a non-medal demonstration sport at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. The upcoming inclusion of flag football represents a significant evolution in how the sport is perceived on an international stage, emphasizing teamwork and agility over physicality.
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