Toyota Motor North America announced on April 14 its continued support for the future of football, focusing on rising stars in youth flag football and incoming NFL players as the NFL Draft approaches Pittsburgh. The company emphasized its commitment to empowering young athletes, particularly girls participating in flag football, through a series of events and initiatives surrounding the draft.
The efforts aim to increase visibility and access for girls in flag football, marking a shift in opportunities within the sport. Toyota’s activities include hosting an exclusive training camp led by Pittsburgh wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., where select NFL Draft prospects and members of the United States Women’s National Flag Football team will coach girls through drills and challenges.
“I’m excited to be in Pittsburgh for this next phase of my football journey,” said Michael Pittman Jr., Pittsburgh wide receiver and Team Toyota athlete. “To females in FLAG and Draft prospects, my message is simple: take advantage of every moment in the spotlight. Every practice, challenge and lesson helps build toward what’s next.”
Toyota will also cover fall registration kit fees for current players in the Pittsburgh Flag Football League coed youth and high school girls leagues. This move is intended to expand access to the sport at a grassroots level. Additionally, during its third year as Presenting Partner of the Red Carpet event at the NFL Draft, Toyota will donate funds to local NFL FLAG leagues based on a prize wheel spun by draft prospects.
Fans attending the draft can participate in interactive experiences at Toyota’s NFL Draft Day Studio from April 23–25. Activities include designing custom belt bags inspired by football themes inside a new 2026 4Runner TRD Pro or taking quizzes inside a new RAV4 Woodland edition that generate personalized keychains.
Dedra DeLilli, vice president of marketing communications at Toyota Motor North America, said: “Every journey deserves a spotlight, and we are proud to see girls leading rather than watching from the sidelines. Toyota’s high beams shine on the NFL Draft, as it serves as a reminder that the Draft is only the beginning, and Toyota will never stop showing up for those in pursuit of their dreams.”
Toyota reports supporting over $3 million worth of initiatives reaching more than 300,000 youth flag players nationwide through its dealer network. The company has been present in North America for nearly seven decades with over 64,000 employees contributing across manufacturing plants—including battery assembly operations launched last year.
