The countdown to the 2028 Summer Olympics has begun, and the anticipation for the inaugural USA Football flag football team is alongside it. Each NFL team is expected to nominate one player for the 10-man roster, heightening the stakes for franchises like the Philadelphia Eagles, who boast an impressive lineup of talent.

Leading the conversation is Saquon Barkley, acclaimed as the top running back in the NFL. His extraordinary agility and speed make him a prime candidate for the flag football format, although his age—turning 31 by the Olympics—could weigh against him, opening the door for younger talents like Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson.

Among wide receivers, A.J. Brown stands out for his unique combination of size and speed, but like Barkley, he faces the challenge of age as he also approaches 30. Speculation arises about potential alternatives, with defensive back Cooper DeJean identified as a strong contender, given his elite ball skills and versatility. His ability to perform on both offense and defense could make him a vital asset for Team USA.

The NFL is taking a significant step toward featuring flag football in the 2028 Summer Olympics, with team owners unanimously approving the participation of players. The next phase involves assembling the national roster, which will blend flag football specialists with NFL talent.

As the team nears development, analysts project what the ultimate U.S. men's flag football team might look like. The expected roster will consist of 10 players across key positions including quarterback, running back, wide receiver, center, rusher, defensive back, and safety. This roster will prioritize players with the necessary skills tailored for flag football's unique gameplay.

The Los Angeles Rams and Detroit Lions are both looking to solidify their playoff positioning as they face off in a critical matchup this week. The Rams, led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, are hoping to capitalize on their strong offensive performances, particularly with star receiver Cooper Kupp coming off a notable game. Meanwhile, the Lions, known for their resilient play under head coach Dan Campbell, aim to leverage their strong running game with Jahmyr Gibbs to dictate the pace and exploit any defensive weaknesses. The stakes are high, as both teams vie for a vital victory in their quest for a playoff berth.

With the new season approaching, the Detroit Lions are set to unveil an offense under new coordinator John Morton that could look significantly different from last year. Amon-Ra St. Brown, entering his fifth NFL season, remains a key figure in this unit. Known for his versatility, he is expected to continue as a primary target for quarterback Jared Goff. As St. Brown evolves, fantasy managers should keep a close eye on how his role shifts in a potentially altered offensive scheme.

The coaching change brings uncertainty, but St. Brown's established rapport with Goff provides a sense of stability. After a promising 2022 season, where he amassed impressive stats, St. Brown will be crucial in maintaining offensive productivity. His ability to operate in various receiving roles will likely be tested as Morton implements his vision for the team.

The Detroit Lions have significantly improved their offensive lineup since Brad Holmes became general manager in 2021, especially with the acquisition of Jahmyr Gibbs. Selected 12th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Gibbs, a talented running back from Alabama, emerged as a crucial asset in the Lions' offense. After a remarkable 2024 season where he amassed nearly 2,000 scrimmage yards and led the league with 16 rushing touchdowns, Gibbs has been recognized as one of the top running backs in the NFL.

His dynamic playing style not only elevates the Lions' ground game but also enhances their overall offensive strategy. The combination of Gibbs' speed, agility, and football IQ allows him to exploit defenses effectively, making him a valuable player for both the team and fantasy football enthusiasts. With his continued development, Gibbs is poised to become a cornerstone of the Lions' backfield.