NFL News Roundup: Von Miller’s Dallas Ambitions, Olympic Dreams, and Player Health Research

Veteran pass-rusher Von Miller has publicly expressed interest in joining the Dallas Cowboys, while Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen is eyeing a spot on the U.S. Olympic flag football team for the 2028 Games. These developments arrive alongside new findings from the Boston University and Mass General Brigham research teams regarding long-term neurological health risks for professional football players.

Von Miller Eyes Potential Move to Dallas Cowboys

Von Miller, currently a veteran presence in the league, has signaled a clear desire to play for the Dallas Cowboys. The interest was confirmed after Miller posted a photo of himself wearing a No. 24 Cowboys jersey on social media, accompanied by a “shush” emoji. This move followed comments made to R.J. Ochoa of SB Nation, where Miller cited the proximity to his family and his upbringing in the Dallas area as primary motivations for a potential move.

“I grew up here in Dallas. The Dallas Cowboys have always had a special place in my heart,” Miller told SB Nation. He noted that playing in Dallas would allow him to be closer to his parents and children, turning a commute into a 20-minute drive rather than a flight. On the field, Miller remains a productive force, recording nine sacks in 17 games during his recent tenure with the Washington Commanders.

Josh Allen Targets 2028 Olympic Flag Football

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has publicly stated his ambition to represent the United States in flag football at the 2028 Olympics. Speaking with NBC, Allen acknowledged that while he lacks specific experience in the nuances of the sport, he is eager to participate if a roster spot becomes available.

The transition to Olympic flag football remains a topic of debate within the league. Following the “Fanatics Flag Football Classic” in March, where established flag football athletes defeated NFL players, questions have persisted regarding how effectively professional tackle football players can adapt to a different style of play.

Neurological Health Risks and NFL Career Longevity

A recent study conducted by Boston University, Mass General Brigham, and the Commotion & CTE foundation indicates that NFL players face a significantly higher risk of dying from neurodegenerative diseases compared to the general population. Data analyzed from approximately 20,000 players who played at least one game in the NFL revealed that the mortality rate associated with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and Charcot’s disease is three to four times higher.

The research, which highlights the health challenges faced by figures such as former Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson, also notes that the risk nearly doubles for players who played for more than five seasons. Despite these findings, the study highlights a counter-intuitive trend: NFL players tend to live longer than the general population on average. Researchers attribute this to the lifestyle advantages associated with professional athletics, including better access to healthcare and lower rates of smoking.

League Updates: Jaguars, Saints, and Colts

• Travis Hunter’s Return: According to NFL Network, Jacksonville Jaguars player Travis Hunter has been medically cleared to participate in training camp without limitations. After a 2025 season limited to seven games due to a knee injury, Hunter is expected to take snaps at both wide receiver and cornerback.
• Charlie Smyth in Paris: New Orleans Saints kicker Charlie Smyth visited Paris this week to promote the upcoming NFL Paris Game, scheduled for October 25, 2026, at the Stade de France. Smyth, a product of the NFL’s International Player Pathway (IPP) program, participated in events at the “Maison Ici C’est Paris” pop-up.
• Adam Vinatieri’s Ring of Honor: The Indianapolis Colts announced that kicker Adam Vinatieri will be inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor on October 18 during a game against the Tennessee Titans. Vinatieri, who is also set for Hall of Fame induction this August, played for the Colts from 2006 to 2018.