Bijan Robinson Eyes Olympic Glory but Warns: Flag Football Is a Whole New Challenge

As the 2028 Olympics loom on the horizon, the NFL’s nod allowing its athletes to compete in flag football is stirring up quite the buzz. One name standing out? Falcons’ own Bijan Robinson — a guy who’s no stranger to the game beyond the gridiron. Picture this: a player who grew up sharpening his reflexes in Texas’ summer 7-on-7 flag football circuits now dreaming of showcasing his flair on the Olympic stage. Sure, the logistics—team permissions, schedules—might play spoilsport, but Robinson’s enthusiasm shines through every word. And he’s not blind to the nuances; he openly acknowledges that flag football demands a distinct skill set, one that’s no easy crossover from tackle ball. With the Olympic flag football event slotted just before training camps rev up, and Robinson set to be in his prime at 26, the countdown is on for a thrilling chapter ahead. LEARN MORE

“So, I think it’s going to come down to our schedule and where it lies, and if the teams even let us go. But I would love to play if given the opportunity. We’ll see. I don’t want it to affect my team and what we’ve got going here.”Robinson grew up playing flag football in the offseason, participating in Texas’ 7-on-7 competitions every summer. He agrees with current flag football players, including star Darrell Doucette III, that flag football isn’t the same as tackle football.The NFL will allow its players to participate in flag football in the 2028 Olympics, and several have publicly expressed interest. Count Falcons running back Bijan Robinson among those.Robinson will be 26 in 2028.“Obviously, there’s a lot of great flag football players out here, and that’s all that they play, and they’re very specific in the game,” Robinson said. “Like you have guys who can be running with the football, and they can get this low to the ground and not get touched. No NFL player is doing that, or trying to do that at least.”

“I feel like it’s always an honor to play for your country,” Robinson said, via video from Cory Muse of KVUE. “Like, you always want to play for your country. I would love to show my skillset on that type of stage.The flag football competition is scheduled for July 14-21, 2028, which is a week before most veteran reporting dates for training camp.