NFL players will officially join the 2028 Olympic competition for flag football. It is a different sport from what NFL talents are accustomed to. The Pittsburgh Steelers have some interesting pieces on their roster who could help Team USA on their pathway to success. Flag football is a much faster game that relies on agility, elusiveness, and a concerted effort to pluck off the opposition's flags.
It's a unique brand of football, and these Steelers could push to make the roster for Team USA.
Players have been working their way to the Olympics with their routine attendance at the Pro Bowl. That all-star event focuses on a flag football game. The NFL has integrated the different styles of the sport into their best players.
Pittsburgh Steelers could have intriguing pieces who could join Olympic flag football festivities
Darnell Washington, Tight end
Flag football is fast, but there could be room for slower players on the roster. Darnell Washington might be the second tight end in Pittsburgh, but he could thrive for Team USA. The Olympics could be a fantastic opportunity for the oversized tight end. He might be huge, but he has shown his athletic abilities.
Washington could play a vital role for the team.
Washington could play the center position. He's required to snap the ball to the quarterback and run routes. He is a giant and could present a massive target who towers over his competition. Imagine Washington competing against shorter players at the Olympics and high-pointing the ball in the end zone.
He could be a perfect player to represent the Steelers at the 2028 summer games.
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Minkah Fitzpatrick, Safety
Providing ball-hawking safeties to Team USA must be a priority. Minkah Fitzpatrick is no stranger to flag football after routinely participating in the Pro Bowl. He is a smart player and someone who could thrive in the Olympics.
Although his turnover margin has been slim in recent years, you cannot deny the abilities Fitzpatrick has shown in the past. He could become a turnover machine in flag football.
His age is something that could hinder the reality of this happening. The veteran safety will be 31 when the Olympics arrive. That might not seem like the end of the world, but Fitzpatrick has shown signs of regression over the past two years. He must earn his way onto Team USA's roster if he wants to represent his country.
Fitzpatrick has work to do, but there is a path for him to make the roster.
Calvin Austin III, Wide receiver
It might seem out of left field, but Calvin Austin III could be perfect for flag football. His small stature might provide roadblocks in the NFL, but his speed could translate flawlessly in the Olympics.
His speed and elusiveness have been terrific during short spurts of his career. It has allowed him to show glimpses of brilliance in a Steelers offense that has struggled to produce dynamic plays.
Pittsburgh should keep an eye on Austin as the Olympics get closer.
No matter if he is with the Steelers or not in 2028, he would be a nice addition to Team USA. He might be small, but that won't be as much of a factor as his speed. The fast receiver is an underdog to make the roster, but he could shock some people if the decision-makers pick speed over headlining names.