### Flag Football Athletes Advocate for Equal Opportunity in the 2028 Olympics

Standing at five feet, seven inches and weighing 140 pounds, Darrell “Housh” Doucette may not have the physical presence of an NFL player, but his passion for flag football is undeniable. Last year, Doucette boldly claimed that his flag football skills surpass those of NFL star Patrick Mahomes, thanks to his extensive knowledge of the game. This debate gains importance as flag football looks to potentially debut in the 2028 Olympics.

Doucette, along with his fellow flag football enthusiasts, hopes that the Olympic tryouts will give them a fair shot at representing their country against active NFL players. "The flag guys deserve their opportunity," Doucette expressed to Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post. “We've worked hard to elevate this sport, and it feels disheartening when NFL players overshadow our efforts. I see myself as a voice for my peers who have dedicated themselves to this game.”

Confident in their abilities, Doucette believes the current roster of American flag football players can secure the gold without relying on NFL talent. "We’ve honed our skills for years and feel we’re the best," Doucette asserted. "While we aim to represent our country, we’re ready to compete against anyone. If NFL players outperform us, then hats off to them. Let’s just bring home the gold."

Doucette emphasizes the differences between flag football and its tackle counterpart, underscoring the unique skills required. "It’s an entirely different game," he stated. "Our practices focus on specific techniques that NFL players aren’t familiar with yet."

Some international opponents share a different view. Chad Palmer, the head coach of the Canadian men's national flag football team, prefers to compete against seasoned flag players rather than NFL all-stars. "We stand a better chance against the flag football veterans," Palmer told Kilgore with confidence.

Palmer argues that the seasoned tackle football players bring superior skills that translate well to flag football. “Players like Ja'Marr Chase have spent their lives mastering football skills and tactics, making it hard for recreational players to compete,” Palmer added. He anticipates that Canada’s team will also feature notable NFL talent.

Nevertheless, the NFL plans to limit each team’s eligibility to one NFL player, along with an International Pathway Program player. With five-on-five games and six teams competing, the role of NFL players may not be as dominant as some fear.

As flag football gears up for the Olympics, the debate over who gets to represent their country is far from over. But one thing is clear: Doucette and his peers are determined to make their mark on the global stage.