Tom Brady Leaves Door Open for 2028 Olympics in Flag Football, Prioritizes Young Stars

Tom Brady, the seven-time Super Bowl champion, hasn’t ruled out the possibility of competing in flag football at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, despite acknowledging it’s “probably unlikely.” The 48-year-old is currently participating in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, marking his first return to the field since retiring in 2023.

Brady’s Olympic Ambivalence

During an appearance on “Good Morning America” on March 17, 2026, Brady addressed the question of Olympic participation. He stated, “I would never say never, but it’s probably unlikely, just so you know.” USA Today reported on the exchange.

Brady emphasized his preference for seeing younger NFL stars take the Olympic stage. “I think for these young guys, it’s good for them to do it,” he said. He suggested a potential role as an advisor or coach, stating, “If I ever wanted to come in as an advisory role, as a coach, something like that, that’s probably better suited for me. But I’ll let the young Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen gain out there and try to win a gold medal for the U.S.”

Return to the Field and Olympic Venue

The Fanatics Flag Football Classic, relocated to BMO Stadium in Los Angeles – the same venue designated for flag football at the LA28 Olympics – represents Brady’s official return to competitive play. Olympics.com confirmed the venue change and Brady’s participation.

The event, scheduled for March 21, 2026, features three 12-player teams: two comprised of current and former NFL stars and elite athletes, and one representing Team USA Football, the nation’s top flag football players. BMO Stadium details the expanded format of the competition.

NFL Franchise Eligibility and Brady’s Role

While NFL owners have approved allowing each franchise to send one player to the LA28 Games, this eligibility is limited to active players under contract. Yahoo Sports notes that Brady, being retired since 2022, doesn’t currently meet those requirements.

Still, a coaching or advisory position wouldn’t be subject to the same restrictions, potentially opening a pathway for Brady’s involvement. He also expressed his continued passion for the NFL, mentioning his minority ownership stake in an NFL franchise and various other projects.

Fanatics Flag Football Classic Teams

The Fanatics Flag Football Classic will feature two teams captained by prominent NFL quarterbacks:

• Founders FFC: Captained by Tom Brady and Jalen Hurts, coached by Sean Payton.
• Wildcats FFC: Captained by Jayden Daniels and Joe Burrow, coached by Kyle Shanahan.

Robert Saleh will serve as a defensive specialist for both teams. BMO Stadium provided this team information.