Overview

• Commissioner Roger Goodell announced in London that pro flag leagues could launch within the next couple of years.
• The NFL aims to have the leagues operating before the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, where flag football will debut.
• Goodell pointed to interest from U.S. colleges and international universities and described a pathway from youth to professional play.
• The initiative builds on moves such as converting the Pro Bowl to flag and expanding youth programs, with USA Football citing 1.6 million U.S. youth participants in 2023.
• The league’s broader global strategy includes a Mexico City return in 2026, an Australia game next season, and a plan to reach 16 games abroad with Asia identified as the next region.