The debate over which athletes from one sport could dominate in another has always been a popular discussion. Could a basketball star excel in the NFL, or vice versa? With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, it's interesting to consider how a soccer team comprised of NFL players would fare. While the question of whether such a team could qualify for the World Cup is debatable, several NFL players possess skills that could translate well from the gridiron to the soccer pitch.

Many NFL stars have a background in soccer, which helped them develop skills applicable to football. Coaches often seek recruits with a soccer background because soccer enhances footwork, agility, vision, reaction time, and conditioning. Some players credit their soccer experience with improving their agility, allowing them to make quick cuts and maintain balance.

Here's a look at how an NFL-based soccer team could be constructed:

Forwards:

• Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings WR): Wide receivers are natural fits as strikers due to their speed and playmaking abilities.
• Puka Nacua (Los Angeles Rams WR): Nacua complements Jefferson well, forming a dynamic duo with exceptional speed and the ability to find the back of the net.

Midfielders:

• Saquon Barkley (Philadelphia Eagles RB): Running backs possess the vision, speed, stamina, and burst needed to excel in the midfield.
• Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens QB): Jackson's speed and agility make him a threat to opposing defenses.
• Antoine Winfield Jr. (Tampa Bay Buccaneers S): Safeties are known for their field awareness and tackling skills, essential for a midfielder.
• Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions RB): Gibbs adds to the midfield's dynamism with his vision and explosive speed.

Defense:

• Jalen Ramsey: Known for being a strong cornerback.
• Richard Sherman: Intercepting passes and getting into opponents' heads are skills that would translate well to soccer.
• Luke Kuechly: Kuechly's speed and tackling ability would make him a formidable central defender.
• Darrelle Revis: A cornerback known for shutting down opposing receivers, earning the moniker "Revis Island".

Goalkeeper:

• J.J. Watt: Watt's athleticism, versatility, and ability to bat away balls make him an ideal goalkeeper.

Several NFL players have openly expressed their love for soccer and how it has benefited their football careers. Chad Johnson has spoken about how soccer drills improved his footwork and route running. Marcus Mariota believes soccer enhanced his vision, instincts, and agility. Ndamukong Suh, whose father played soccer professionally, credits soccer with developing his athletic skills. Wes Welker attributes his fundamental football abilities to his soccer background.

Some NFL players even had promising soccer careers before switching to football. Brandon Aubrey played college soccer at Notre Dame and was drafted into the MLS. Josh Lambo played goalkeeper for the U17 and U20 United States youth teams and was drafted by FC Dallas.

The relationship between the NFL and soccer is growing, with players from both sports interacting and influencing each other. Many NFL players have become fans of soccer, with some investing in MLS teams. Similarly, soccer stars like Antoine Griezmann have become infatuated with the NFL.