After shining in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, DeVonta Smith may have positioned himself as a serious Olympic candidate.
If nothing else, the Fanatics Flag Football Classic proved one thing. Team USA isn’t just good. They are operating on a completely different level. Many of us thought the roster would be upgraded by simply adding the Philadelphia Eagles and other NFL stars. Still, Team USA’s dominance over NFL-led squads highlighted just how specialized the sport has become. Still, amid that reality check, one NFL star stood out for all the right reasons. That player was DeVonta Smith. Jalen Hurts had his moments, but make no mistake. The classic turned out to be the Slim Reaper’s showcase.
Good gracious! How good is this guy?
Don’t be shocked if DeVonta Smith lands on Team USA’s roster.
While many NFL stars spent most of their time struggling while attempting to adjust to the pace, spacing, and rules of flag football, Smith looked like a natural. He hauled in multiple touchdowns, displayed elite awareness on broken plays, and consistently created separation. According to CBS Sports reporter Tyler Sullivan, Smith’s performance was strong enough to warrant legitimate consideration for the 2028 Olympic roster. Regardless of how you stack that one, that isn’t a small statement.
The gap between traditional football players and seasoned flag athletes was obvious. Team USA’s chemistry, instincts, and understanding of the game allowed them to dominate every matchup. They weren’t just better. They were more comfortable, more efficient, and far more disciplined.
That’s why the conversation about Olympic roster construction is already so fascinating. Should Team USA rely strictly on experienced flag football players? Or is there room for elite NFL talent who can adapt quickly and bring star power to the global stage? Smith may be the perfect bridge between those worlds. Smith will be 29 years old when the Summer Olympics arrive in 2028. He’ll still be in his athletic prime. More importantly, his skill set, quickness, route precision, and playmaking in space all translate seamlessly to the intricacies of flag football.
Unlike many of his NFL peers, he didn’t look out of place. He looked like he belonged. That may be the biggest takeaway of all. Smith didn’t just impress. He made a case, and in a conversation where few NFL players helped themselves, he may have quietly moved to the front of the line. One thing is certain. If he does give serious thought to joining the American team, let’s hope he doesn’t get injured in the process.
