The NFL has taken another major step in expanding the game, announcing a $32 million investment toward the creation of a new professional flag football league for both men and women. During a Dec. 10 virtual league meeting, all 32 NFL franchises unanimously approved a plan to contribute $1 million each to fund the development and launch of the league. The move underscores the league’s growing commitment to flag football as a key driver of the sport’s future.
According to Bleacher Report, the NFL plans to partner with an external organization to bring the league to life. Among the leading candidates are TMRW Sports and another group backed by former NFL players and NBA owners. While no final decision has been announced, league officials confirmed strong interest from multiple potential partners.
“There has been tremendous interest from a variety of companies,” the NFL said in a statement. “We continue to make great strides to determine operational leads that will position us for long-term success.” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized that the league’s focus goes beyond financial backing. “We’re looking at this as a great opportunity to continue to get people playing football—both men and women,” Goodell said. “We’re looking for creative and strategic partners who can bring value. Capital is less interesting to us.”
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he announcement comes amid unprecedented momentum for flag football, fueled in part by the sport’s historic inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Flag football will make its Olympic debut, further elevating global visibility and participation. Participation numbers reflect that growth. An estimated 20 million people worldwide now play flag football, including 2.4 million youth athletes in the United States. The sport has also gained widespread institutional support, with 38 states sanctioning girls’ flag football at the high school level. While the NFL has not yet disclosed a formal launch date or potential team locations, Goodell has previously indicated that professional competition could begin within the next few years.
As the NFL continues to invest at every level—from youth and high school to collegiate and now professional—flag football’s rise shows no signs of slowing.