Flag Football Growth Boosts NFL Popularity Worldwide

The NFL's push to promote flag football as a global sport is paying dividends.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The NFL's efforts to promote flag football as a global sport are paying dividends, with the growth of flag football elevating the league's popularity worldwide. A center snap from Dak Prescott to Jalen Hurts is a play that can only be seen at the Pro Bowl, the centerpiece of the NFL's push to drive interest in flag football.

Why it matters

The NFL is looking to expand its global reach and fan base, and flag football provides an accessible entry point for new audiences around the world to engage with American football. As the sport grows in popularity internationally, it could lead to increased viewership, merchandise sales, and overall interest in the NFL brand.

The details

Flag football, a variant of American football played without tackling, has seen a surge in popularity globally in recent years. The NFL has made a concerted effort to promote flag football, including hosting flag football events and competitions as part of its international programming. This strategy appears to be paying off, with the sport gaining traction in new markets and introducing the NFL brand to a wider audience.

  • The NFL has been actively promoting flag football globally in recent years.
  • The Pro Bowl, the NFL's annual all-star game, features flag football events that showcase the sport to a worldwide audience.

The players

Dak Prescott

A quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys who has participated in the Pro Bowl, where flag football events are featured.

Jalen Hurts

A quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles who has also participated in the Pro Bowl and its flag football competitions.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The NFL's strategic focus on promoting flag football globally is helping to expand the league's reach and appeal to new audiences around the world, potentially leading to increased viewership, merchandise sales, and overall interest in the NFL brand.