Cincinnati Bengals wideout Ja’Marr Chase, known for his explosive play, is taking a wait-and-see approach to possibly competing in flag football at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. While his athleticism makes him a natural fit, Chase isn’t quite ready to commit.
Ja’Marr Chase Candidly Questions Olympic Flag Football Participation
Speaking after a recent offseason training activity (OTA), Chase voiced his uncertainty about the Olympic opportunity.
Ja’Marr Chase has mixed feelings on if he would or wouldn’t want to play in the Olympics. Chase has questions he wants answers to. Also Ja’Marr spoke about the respect he has for people who play and love flag football as opposed to the pro-NFL players. #Bengals @WCPO pic.twitter.com/uz0IBdkQHN
— Marshall Kramsky (@marshallkramsky) May 27, 2025
“I don’t know,” he said when asked about his potential involvement. “I want to hear more information about it. I want to know the timing for us, offseason, in season. I want to know if we’re getting paid. I want to know where we traveling every other week or every day, like all that plays a part, because we have an offseason, we have a life. How long would that be? I don’t know. There’s a lot of questions to it.”
Chase’s skepticism appears rooted in logistical concerns and respect for the existing flag football community. The 2028 Olympics will take place from July 14 to 30, with the flag football competition set for the opening week, July 14 to 21. This is timed just ahead of the typical start of NFL training camps. Still, the timing could impact offseason routines, recovery, and personal lives.
Financial compensation and travel logistics also weigh on his mind. As he emphasized, “I want to know if we’re getting paid.” Such concerns reflect broader questions many NFL stars may have before agreeing to participate in an international event during what is typically downtime in their professional calendar.
Chase didn’t stop at the practicalities. He thoughtfully acknowledged the impact of NFL players joining a sport that others have been committed to growing. Referencing players like Darrell “Housh” Doucette and others who have championed flag football globally, Chase questioned whether the involvement of NFL stars might undermine their contributions. “We taking they love of the game, and bashing it with our love of the game,” Chase said. “Now we taking away their love of the game and we killing them. It’s a lot, bro I think it’s cool, but I just don’t know if I’m 100% in on it.”
Chase’s words reflect a layered view—he acknowledges the appeal and significance of flag football in the Olympics but also points out the ethical and logistical complexities of participation. While others, like Justin Jefferson, have called it a “dream” to win gold, Chase is not yet convinced.
For now, the star receiver is keeping his options open, leaving plenty of room for further developments as 2028 approaches.