LA Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford addressed questions about his involvement in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where the sport will make its debut. While Stafford dismissed the idea of playing, he expressed interest in taking on a coaching role for Team USA.
During a press interaction on Thursday, reporters asked Stafford if he would consider representing the United States in the Olympic flag football event. He responded with humor, saying,
“You talking about coaching or what?”
Stafford said while letting out a laugh.
“Sure. I mean, nobody’s going to want me to but yeah, sure. It’d be fun. I’ll coach.”
Stafford, who will be 40 years old when the Olympics take place, indicated that playing competitively is unlikely but coaching could be an appealing opportunity. The Olympic flag football format will feature international teams with rosters of 10 players, with five players allowed on the field at a time.
Team USA is widely regarded as the favorite for the gold medal in the sport’s Olympic debut. High-profile NFL stars such as Patrick Mahomes, Justin Jefferson, Ja’Marr Chase, and Christian McCaffrey are among those rumored to be representing the country in Los Angeles.
Stafford’s Role with the LA Rams Continues as 2025 Season Approaches
Looking ahead, Matthew Stafford is expected to remain the starting quarterback for the LA Rams in the 2025 NFL season. While he faces competition from Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett for the quarterback position, both are seen primarily as backups.
Stafford, who led the Rams to a Super Bowl championship in 2022, will enter his fifth year with the team in 2025. His performance last season included 3,762 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and eight interceptions as the Rams captured the NFC West division title with a 10-7 record.
In the 2024 playoffs, the Rams secured a wild-card round victory against the Minnesota Vikings before falling to the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round, underscoring the competitive challenge entering the next season.
Implications of Stafford’s Coaching Interest for Team USA’s Olympic Flag Football Prospects
Stafford’s openness to coaching Team USA could add valuable leadership experience to a squad expected to be loaded with NFL talent. His familiarity with high-pressure games and team management might enhance Team USA’s preparations for the inaugural Olympic flag football tournament.
The growth of flag football as an Olympic sport introduces a unique platform blending football skills with an international competitive environment, and having respected figures like Stafford involved, whether as players or coaches, carries significance for the sport’s credibility and visibility on this global stage.