Back
Sports

Team USA Secures Dominant Victory Over NFL Player Teams at Flag Football Classic

Generated on: Last updated: 1 sources
View source

Inaugural Flag Football Classic Kicks Off in Los Angeles

The inaugural Flag Football Classic took place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Los Angeles, California. The event, originally slated for Saudi Arabia, was relocated and featured Team USA competing against two teams composed primarily of current and former NFL players. This tournament occurred amid ongoing discussions regarding which group would represent the United States in flag football at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where the sport will debut.

The Classic, a critical warm-up for the sport's Olympic debut, saw Team USA face off against star-studded NFL teams in Los Angeles.

Participating Teams

Two teams, the Founders and the Wildcats, were comprised of NFL players, while Team USA represented the national flag football program. Notable participants included a mix of NFL legends, current stars, and even crossover celebrities.

Founders

  • Quarterbacks: Tom Brady (retired), Jalen Hurts (Eagles)
  • Running Backs: Ashton Jeanty (Raiders), Alvin Kamara (Saints)
  • Wide Receivers: DeVonta Smith (Eagles), Stefon Diggs (free agent)
  • Tight End: Rob Gronkowski (retired)
  • Defensive End: Von Miller (free agent)
  • Cornerback: Patrick Peterson (retired)
  • Safeties: Antoine Winfield Jr. (Buccaneers), Damar Hamlin (free agent)
  • Other: Terence Crawford (boxer)
  • Coach: Sean Payton (Denver Broncos)

Wildcats

  • Quarterbacks: Joe Burrow (Bengals), Jayden Daniels (Commanders)
  • Running Back: Saquon Barkley (Eagles)
  • Fullback: Kyle Juszczyk (49ers)
  • Wide Receivers: Davante Adams (Rams), Odell Beckham Jr. (free agent), DeAndre Hopkins (free agent)
  • Linebacker: Luke Keuchly (retired)
  • Cornerback: Jalen Ramsey (Steelers)
  • Safety: Derwin James Jr. (Chargers)
  • Other: Logan Paul (wrestler), IShowSpeed (streamer)
  • Coach: Kyle Shanahan (San Francisco 49ers)

Tennessee Titans head coach Robert Saleh served as a defensive specialist for both the Founders and Wildcats.

Tournament Results

Team USA demonstrated dominance, winning all three of its games in the tournament.

  • In their first matchup, Team USA defeated the Wildcats 39-14.
  • They then faced the Founders, winning 43-16.
  • In the final game, Team USA secured a 24-14 victory in a rematch against the Wildcats.

Team USA's exceptional performance throughout the three games resulted in a combined score of 106-44, showcasing their strength.

Team USA's participation was a last-minute addition, enabled by expanded rosters required after the tournament's relocation from Saudi Arabia to Los Angeles.