The NFL is eyeing the2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles with big dreams, hoping to showcase its stars on the global stage. But one rising star has already made it clear he won’t be suiting up for any Olympic action.
Shedeur Sanders, the highly-touted Colorado quarterback, just dropped a bombshell on his 2Legendary podcast. Sanders, who’s on the fast track to NFL stardom, flat-out rejected the idea of joining the Olympic festivities. “Nah, I’m good,”Sanders said bluntly when asked if he’d consider playing flag football at the 2028 Games. His reason? The risk of injury looms too large.
Sanders’ stance is a calculated one. By the time the 2028 Olympics roll around, the quarterback will likely be finishing up his rookie contract, eyeing a massive payday with his second deal. The last thing he wants is to jeopardize his NFL future by getting hurt on a different stage.
It’s worth noting, though, that Sanders’ name hasn’t been officially thrown into the Olympic mix. But with the NFL’s recent push to create a “Super Team” for the Olympics, many soon-to-be rookies are weighing the risks and rewards. And Sanders’ decision could influence others in the same boat.
NFL’s Olympic push faces backlash from Flag Football community
The NFL’s Olympic ambitions have stirred up quite a bit of controversy, especially among those already playing flag football. Darrell Doucette, a pro flag football quarterback, has been vocal about his disapproval. He argues that NFL players shouldn’t be handed Olympic spots just because of their fame-they need to prove they belong on the field.
NFL heavyweights like Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson haven’t stayed silent on the issue either, responding to the criticism and fueling the debate. The league, however, seems determined to crash the Olympic party. In fact, they’ve already teased their intentions with a viral video featuring Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts.
As for Shedeur Sanders, don’t expect to see him donning the red, white, and blue on the Olympic sidelines. He’s got his eyes set on bigger, more lucrative prizes.