Ben Skowronek has finally punched his ticket to the Pro Bowl Games in his fifth NFL season. For the Pittsburgh Steelers’ gunner, it’s a chance to shine in flag football events, and with that, Skowronek is dropping hints about a future in 2028 that could take him beyond traditional tackle football. 

“Flag football is growing, especially with the Olympics in 2028 in Los Angeles,” Ben Skowronek said on February 2. “So, the Pro Bowl is a good way for NFL guys to get involved and be a part of the USA team coming up.”

This interest from Skowronek comes at the perfect time. Flag football is exploding in popularity, especially with its debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, drawing top talent from the NFL. 

This momentum started building last May, when NFL team owners unanimously voted to add flag football to the Olympic program. This decision paved the way for a national roster to represent Team USA on the world stage. USA Football will ultimately select the players, but for Skowronek, earning a spot would open doors to elite international competition. 

Ben Skowronek knows flag firsthand, and he sees it as more than a casual game. For many, it serves as that crucial first step into the sport’s bigger world of football. 

“I played a lot of flag football,” said Skowronek. “A lot of fun. But I like tackle football. ‘I learned from flag football to just go out there and compete, have fun. Flag football is a starting point for a lot of football players. So, it’s fun, it’s competitive. It’s good for skilled guys, especially.'”

Skowronek isn’t the only name from the NFL who is keen on playing outside of the league. Even the Dolphins’ WR Tyreek Hill is eyeing a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, he isn’t much interested in playing flag football and would much rather participate in track.  

Ahead of the Super Bowl, the Pro Bowl games are already generating serious buzz across the league. Skowronek is right in the mix, making the most of every moment and positioning himself for opportunities that stretch far beyond his Steelers tenure. 

Ben Skowronek says, “It’s been a goal of mine”

From the Steelers franchise, three players were originally selected for the Pro Bowl: T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, and Ben Skowronek. But Watt and Ramsey both withdrew, opening spots filled by Jaguars’ Devin Lloyd and Texans’ Calen Bullock. Still, Skowronek is showing up for the fun games, letting the experience wash over him.

“This is awesome,” said Skowronek. “It’s been a goal of mine to make it to a Pro Bowl. This is my first one. I’m going to soak it all in. It has been awesome so far. It’s a lot of fun getting out here, having fun with the best players in the world.”

Ben Skowronek proved to be an important piece on the Steelers’ roster this year. The special teamer wrapped up the season with 21 tackles (11 solo), four receptions, and one touchdown. That being said, the Pro Bowl Games kick off today on ESPN, giving fans another chance to see some of their favorite stars in action before the offseason hits.