FLAG FOOTBALL & STRIPES

Justin “Twin” McMullen is a defensive back from Miami, Florida, and a first-year member of the 2026 U.S. Men’s Flag National Team. He earned his nickname because of his twin brother Joshua, with whom he shares a competitive spirit for flag football. McMullen was a star football player at Booker T. Washington High School before playing at Western Carolina University. After stepping away from tackle football, he returned to the game through the flag football community in Miami. The transition required him to adjust from tackling to flag pulling and to adapt to the faster, smaller field style of play.

McMullen credits fellow National Team players Jamie Kennedy and Laderrick “Pablo” Smith for helping him develop his flag football skills and introducing him to the national level of game play. As part of Miami’s strong flag football culture, McMullen has risen to represent the United States.

A dynamic wide receiver and defensive back, Ja’Deion High carved out a notable collegiate career at Texas Tech University from 2013 to 2018, where he accumulated 83 receptions for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns. Following his success in collegiate tackle football, High seamlessly returned to the flag football arena. His exceptional speed, agility, and knowledge of the game quickly made him a valuable member of the U.S. Men’s Flag National Team. His ability to make game-changing plays on both offense and defense has been crucial in elevating the team to global dominance, culminating in multiple world championships, including the 2024 title.

Beyond the statistics, High stands out as a true leader and an inspiring figure in the flag football community.

Shawn “Flash” Theard, Jr. is a wide receiver and rusher from New Orleans, Louisiana, who has represented the U.S. Men’s Flag National Team in both 2025 and 2026. Nicknamed “Flash” for his elite speed and big play ability, he is considered one of the most explosive and versatile offensive players in flag football. Theard was inspired by his older brother, Mike Lee, who played college football at the University of Kansas and professionally in the XFL. Through elite flag football competition, he earned a spot on Team USA, where he has represented the United States internationally and helped showcase the high level of American flag football talent.

A versatile athlete, Laderrick “Pablo” Smith earned his memorable nickname at just seven years old from a coach who saw in him the spirit of a famous character, foreshadowing a career defined by dynamic playmaking. Smith transitioned from tackle football, where he also played collegiately, to the world of flag football. His adaptability on the field is remarkable, allowing him to excel as both a wide receiver and a quarterback, a rare combination that makes him a formidable opponent. Smith became a cornerstone of the U.S. Men’s Flag National Team. His contributions have been fundamental in securing two gold medals for his country, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure on the world stage. Running, throwing, and catching touchdowns within a single tournament makes him a triple threat that opposing teams struggle to contain.

Beyond football, Smith is a dedicated entrepreneur and a passionate community advocate, using his platform to inspire and uplift others. His commitment to the sport extends to the next generation, as he actively coaches youth flag football, sharing his expertise and love for the game with young athletes.