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NFL Network to Broadcast Pro Flag Football in 2018
The American Flag Football League (AFFL) and NFL Network have agreed to broadcast 11 live AFFL games and distribute highlights from the AFFL’s 2018 U.S. Open of Football (USOF) Tournament. The 132-team, single-elimination tournament will pit a team of elite former professionals against the winner of an open 128-team national bracket.
The agreement is the first broadcast deal for professional flag football, building on growing fan support since the AFFL’s first exhibition game in June 2017.
“Today marks great progress for football fans and players,” said Jeffrey Lewis, AFFL CEO and Founder. “As the first-ever broadcast and distribution deal focused on bringing the game of flag football to the broadest possible audience, we are thrilled to partner with NFL Network, the premier platform for football.”
NFL Network will televise 11 USOF games live June 29 – July 19, concluding with the Ultimate Final where America’s Champion and the Pros’ Champion will meet in a winner-take-all contest for $1 million. The broadcasts are scheduled for the following dates:
- June 29 | America’s Bracket Quarterfinals – 2 games
- June 30 | America’s Bracket Quarterfinals – 2 games
- July 7 | America’s and Pros’ Bracket Semi Finals – 2 games
- July 8 | America’s and Pros’ Bracket Semi Finals – 2 games
- July 14 | America’s and Pros’ Bracket Finals – 2 games
- July 19 | Ultimate Final between winner of America’s and Pros’ Bracket – 1 game
The four Pro teams will be led by Michael Vick, Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, basketball duo Nate Robinson and Carlos Boozer, and Justin Forsett and Olympic Champion Michael Johnson.
The 11-game telecasts will be produced by NFL Network and feature NFL Network talent.
The U.S. Open of Football allows anyone to apply for the chance to compete against some of the most accomplished players in front of large crowds and audiences. The AFFL is extending the application deadline from March 1, 2018 to March 8, 2018.
Applicants who apply and are selected to play in the USOF will play in the 128-team America’s Bracket.
See the U.S. Open of Football’s full schedule, application requirements, the official broadcast schedule, game rules and more.
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