Joe Burrow, surging NFL ambassador, has Roger Goodell's ear now

Bengals QB is becoming a prominent voice for the league on key initiatives like Olympic flag football.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:19pm

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Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is emerging as an influential ambassador for the NFL, with league commissioner Roger Goodell taking notice of Burrow's involvement in promoting the sport, including his advocacy for flag football's inclusion in the 2028 Olympics.

Why it matters

Burrow's growing stature as a league representative comes at a pivotal time, as the NFL looks to expand its global reach and engage younger fans through initiatives like Olympic flag football. His direct access to Goodell could help shape the league's future direction.

The details

After attending the recent NFL flag football event, which has 2028 Olympics implications, Burrow was seen speaking directly with Commissioner Goodell about his ideas for growing the sport and expanding the league's reach. NFL Hall of Famer Larry Fitzgerald praised Burrow's involvement, saying 'he takes ownership' and is one of the 'faces of the National Football League'.

  • Burrow attended the recent NFL flag football event.
  • Burrow was seen speaking with Commissioner Goodell after the event.

The players

Joe Burrow

The starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals who is becoming an influential ambassador for the NFL.

Roger Goodell

The current Commissioner of the National Football League.

Larry Fitzgerald

A former NFL wide receiver and Hall of Famer who praised Burrow's involvement with the league.

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What they’re saying

“After the event, he was talking to Commissioner Goodell. The ideas he has growing flag to expanding things in the league. He takes ownership. I really liked him, and I'm glad he's one of the faces of the National Football League and that he cares so much about the game and the people.”

— Larry Fitzgerald, NFL Hall of Famer

What’s next

The NFL will continue to evaluate the potential inclusion of flag football in the 2028 Olympics, with Burrow's advocacy expected to play a key role in those discussions.

The takeaway

Joe Burrow's growing influence as an NFL ambassador, with direct access to Commissioner Goodell, positions him as a powerful voice in shaping the league's future initiatives, particularly around expanding the sport's global reach through events like the Olympics.