Football talent runs deep in the Flowers family, though the two brothers have pursued their athletic careers in different codes of the sport. Aaron Flowers plays American football as a safety for the University of Oregon, while his younger brother Benji Flowers has made significant strides in soccer, recently signing a professional contract with English club Chelsea.

Benji, 15, has been part of the FC Dallas academy since the age of 10 and became the youngest player to sign a contract with the senior Dallas team as a homegrown player in late July. Although he will officially join Chelsea upon turning 18, he will continue developing his skills in Texas until then. Chelsea reportedly paid $3 million for Benji’s contract, with potential add-ons that could raise the total to $10 million.

The contrast between the brothers’ paths partly stems from their physical differences during childhood. Benji joked that his parents considered American football too dangerous for him because Aaron was notably larger and more resilient to physical hits. Aaron, who grew up in Forney, Texas, started playing soccer before switching to football due to his physicality and difficulties avoiding penalties. He was highly recruited out of high school and chose Oregon over other major programs including USC, Baylor, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Alabama.

Since joining Oregon, Aaron has progressively developed his role on the team. After a limited redshirt season in 2024, he became a key defensive player in 2025, starting all 15 games as the Ducks reached the College Football Playoff semifinals. He recorded 70 tackles, ranking third on the team’s defense, and has formed defensive back partnerships with notable players such as Dillon Thieneman—now with the Chicago Bears—and Koi Perich, a recent transfer from Minnesota.

Benji’s rise in soccer has also drawn attention beyond FC Dallas. He has represented the United States at the under-15 level, scoring twice in three appearances this year. FC Dallas president Dan Hunt praised his dedication and the club’s academy system, viewing Benji’s signing as validation of their long-term player development efforts. MLS commissioner Don Garber echoed this sentiment, calling the deal “the single-biggest validation” of the league’s investment in youth programs.

Both brothers credit their family’s support for their progress in their respective sports. Aaron said he always recognized Benji’s talent and was proud to see his younger brother turn professional. The Flowers family’s dual achievements highlight the diverse pathways young athletes can take within the broader sphere of football.