New York Jets Announce New Flag Football Team with Major Support
Anwar Stetson
The New York Jets have announced a major expansion of their Jets Flag Elite program for the 2025–26 season, unveiling a new 14U girls travel team and securing Fathead as the initiative’s first-ever presenting sponsor. The program will now support both high school and 14U teams, providing nearly full financial coverage for players — from coaching and equipment to travel and tournament fees.
This expansion reflects the Jets’ continued push to elevate girls’ flag football to a national stage and comes amid surging participation in the sport across the U.S.
Flag football is experiencing rapid growth, particularly among young women. NFL teams are continuing their investment in the sport as it becomes a serious alternative to tackle football, especially with Olympic inclusion on the horizon in 2028 and increasing scholarship opportunities. Organizations like the Jets are playing a crucial role in this ecosystem.
“This partnership with Fathead reduces barriers for families and helps provide elite experiences for young athletes,” said Jeff Fernandez, Jets SVP of Business Development. The sponsorship includes travel support and custom fan gear, while the Jets fund all core program costs for young players.
Head coaches for the season include Mickey McDermott (High School) and Jesse Marrow (14U), both highly respected in the flag football community. The teams debuted at the Halloween Horror Tournament in Windsor, Connecticut on October 11, and the organization is hosting a regional tournament in Clifton, New Jersey on October 26, with winners advancing to the NFL Flag Championships.
As flag football continues to gain legitimacy and visibility, the Jets’ model could become a national blueprint — signaling that girls’ flag is not just the future of football, but already a thriving part of its present.