The NFL world was buzzing after owners permitted professional stars to compete in flag football at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. And unsurprisingly, it didn't take long for the Washington Commanders' prized possession to emerge as a potential candidate for the squad.
Some top-level players, such as Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, have already thrown their hat into the ring. Speculation will be rampant between now and when official confirmation arrives, so it'll be fascinating to see who gets chosen.
One player from each team can be taken onto the squad. Those with international allegiances can also play for their respective countries. This means several players from an NFL roster could end up competing. There's just no telling for sure right now.
NFL analyst believes Commanders QB Jayden Daniels could make Team USA's flag football squad
Cody Benjamin from CBS Sports thought Jayden Daniels was a lively candidate to be the USA's starting quarterback at the prestigious event. The analyst thought his unique skill set and the fact that he'll be even better in three years make him a worthy option for the job.
What's the common thread for our selections? Speed. Athleticism. Multipurpose potential. Whereas traditional football still values tenacious blocking and defensive physicality, flag football is all about open-field dynamism. You need players with sure hands and other fundamentals, yes, but burst and elusiveness are paramount. It's why, at quarterback, we prioritized a true dual threats, with [Jayden] Daniels arguably best positioned to offer the best of both worlds -- tightrope accuracy, downfield touch and effortless mobility -- in three years' time.Cody Benjamin
Daniels would love the opportunity. He's a California kid and might be the face of the league by this point. Even so, it would create a potential headache for the Commanders.
If the former LSU standout continues his rapid ascent to the NFL's elite, the Commanders will have already handed him a barrier-breaking contract extension by this point. Running the risk of injury with so much committed to the signal-caller isn't ideal, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to represent your country in the Olympics on home soil.
The NFL wants to build its global brand above everything else. Player safety was likely a factor, but the fact that this decision has been met with widespread approval tells you everything. There is a long way to go and a lot of football left before the squad is finalized, but it's hard to envisage a scenario where Daniels doesn't enter serious consideration.
Washington will roll with the punches. They're not going to deny Daniels a chance to become an Olympic sensation. However, there will be more than a few anxiously hoping there are no repercussions on the health front, considering the Heisman Trophy winner could end up getting $90 million per season on his next deal.
