Feb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

'Leave That To The Younger Guys': Patrick Mahomes Gives Honest Reaction On Joining Team USA In Olympics Flag Football

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Ernest Leo Hernandez | Last updated May 30, 2025 6:40 AM ET

Patrick Mahomes , quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, might not play flag football in the 2028 Olympics, according to a recent conversation with renowned sports journalist Ian Rapoport. Rapoport shared a tweet through his X account, sharing what Mahomes said when he was asked if he would lead the team for flag football in the next Olympics.

Mahomes responded that he would probably leave that to the “younger guys”. When the decision to allow NFL players to play flag football was announced by the league, many hinted that quarterback Patrick Mahomes would be the first one on the boat. However, it seems like an Olympic gold medal is not something Mahomes is craving right now.

“#Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes on potentially playing flag football in the 2028 Olympics: ‘I’ll probably leave that to the younger guys.’.” Ian Rapoport posted on his X account about Patrick Mahomes possibly playing flag football at the 2028 Olympics.

#Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes on potentially playing flag football in the 2028 Olympics: “I’ll probably leave that to the younger guys.”

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 29, 2025

Numerous sports analysts and fans have come up with different theories as to which of the current NFL players will play flag football for Team USA. While many Mahomes fans are still holding on to the hope that their favorite player might soon play for the country on an international platform, other NFL fans are praying that former NFL quarterback Tom Brady might come out of his retirement, particularly for this.

Meanwhile, whether he has flag football on his mind, or not, it is clear that Patrick Mahomes has definitely set his eyes on winning another Super Bowl for his team. This is especially true after the last Super Bowl ring was snatched away from his hand by the Philadelphia Eagles.

Patrick Mahomes’ Decision To Not Play Flag Football Criticized By Fans

Patrick Mahomes might have thought his simple response to whether he will play for Team USA’s flag football squad in the 2028 Olympics, would have sufficed to quench the curiosity of the masses. However, it seems to have sparked a wave of criticism about the quarterback’s devotion to the United States of America itself.

Jan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) alongside defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo against the Buffalo Bills during the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

While many football fans believe that Patrick Mahomes is making the right decision by not playing flag football and instead leaving that to the youngsters, many others feel otherwise. Social media was flooded with numerous users who accused Mahomes of not being patriotic to the United States through his decision. Quarterback Mahomes has yet to respond to this new criticism.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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