U.S. News
NFL Stars’ Flag Football Dream Takes a Historic Detour from Riyadh
Clear Facts
- Fanatics Flag Football Classic relocated to BMO Stadium in Los Angeles on March 21, 2026.
- Event moved from Riyadh amid U.S.-involved Middle East military operations.
- Tom Brady captains Founders FFC, marking his first football field appearance since 2023 retirement.
- Three teams compete: two NFL star squads and USA IFAF Flag World Champions.
The groundbreaking event from Fanatics Studios showcases elite talent at the 2028 Olympic flag football venue. A March 18 draft forms Founders FFC and Wildcats FFC from a star-studded pool.
Founders FFC pairs Brady with Jalen Hurts under coach Sean Payton. Wildcats FFC unites Jayden Daniels and Joe Burrow with Kyle Shanahan coaching.
Robert Saleh acts as defensive specialist for both NFL teams. Player pool highlights running backs Saquon Barkley, Alvin Kamara, Ashton Jeanty.
- Wide receivers/tight ends: Davante Adams, Odell Beckham Jr., Stefon Diggs, Rob Gronkowski, DeAndre Hopkins, Kyle Juszczyk, Deebo Samuel, DeVonta Smith.
- Linebackers/defensive backs: Myles Garrett, Derwin James Jr., Luke Kuechly, Tyrann Mathieu, Von Miller, Jalen Ramsey.
- Entertainers/athletes: Logan Paul, IShowSpeed, Terrence Crawford.
USA men’s national team includes captain Aamir Brown, QB Darrell Doucette III, and standouts like Laval Davis, Shawn Theard Jr.
“Having Team USA as the third team in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic elevates the already world-class talent participating in this tournament,” Brady stated.
“I’m fired up to see how these teams stack up, and the fact that we’ll be playing in the same stadium that will host flag football during the Olympics will show the world a preview of what’s to come in 2028. But I’m not coming back to the football field to lose. That’s for damn sure.”
Drew Brees and Larry Fitzgerald join as Class of 2026 Hall of Fame commissioners. Kevin Hart hosts with Druski on commentary.
Games use Olympic flag rules: five-on-five on 50-by-25-yard field, round-robin to championship. Broadcast live domestically and streamed internationally.
This American showcase highlights NFL excellence and national pride ahead of Olympic glory.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
