The anticipation for EA Sports College Football 26 is reaching a fever pitch, and fans are eager to see which players will dominate the virtual gridiron. With the return of the beloved franchise after a long hiatus, the developers have gone to great lengths to ensure the player ratings reflect the real-life talent and potential of college football’s brightest stars. While the official ratings won’t be confirmed until the game’s release, we can make educated predictions based on recent performances, stats, and the buzz surrounding these athletes. Here’s a look at some of the top-rated players expected to shine in EA College Football 26.
Quarterbacks are always the marquee players in any football game, and this year’s crop is no exception. At the top of the list is Carson Beck from Georgia. After a stellar 2023 season where he led the Bulldogs to yet another playoff appearance, Beck’s accuracy, poise, and arm strength make him a prime candidate for the highest-rated QB in the game. His ability to read defenses and deliver pinpoint passes under pressure should translate into a rating in the high 90s. Another signal-caller to watch is Quinn Ewers from Texas. With his rocket arm and improved decision-making, Ewers has all the tools to be a virtual cheat code in the game. If he builds on his 2023 success, he could easily be a 95+ overall player.
Then there’s Jalen Milroe from Alabama. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Milroe’s speed and power make him a nightmare for defenses. His passing has improved significantly, and his ability to extend plays with his legs will make him one of the most dynamic QBs in the game. Don’t be surprised if his overall rating hovers around 94-96, with high marks in speed and acceleration. Shedeur Sanders from Colorado is another name to watch. Despite playing behind a shaky offensive line, Sanders put up video game-like numbers in 2023. His quick release, accuracy, and clutch performances could earn him a spot among the elite-rated QBs in EA College Football 26.
Running backs will also play a pivotal role in the game, and this year’s group is stacked. Ollie Gordon II from Oklahoma State is coming off a monstrous season where he led the nation in rushing. His combination of power, vision, and breakaway speed should make him one of the highest-rated RBs, possibly in the 96-97 range. Then there’s Quinshon Judkins from Ohio State. After transferring from Ole Miss, Judkins is poised to tear up the Big Ten with his elite balance and tackle-breaking ability. His rating should reflect his status as one of the most complete backs in the country.
Don’t overlook TreVeyon Henderson, also from Ohio State. His explosiveness and receiving skills out of the backfield make him a versatile weapon. If he stays healthy, he could easily be a 95+ overall back in the game. Meanwhile, Donovan Edwards from Michigan brings a mix of speed and power that will make him a nightmare for defenders. His performance in big games, including his breakout showing in the College Football Playoff, should earn him a high rating.
Wide receivers are where the game’s ratings will really shine, as this position is loaded with talent. Luther Burden III from Missouri is a prime candidate to be the highest-rated WR. His route-running, hands, and after-the-catch ability are all elite, and he could be a 97+ overall player. Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona is another name to watch. His size, speed, and contested-catch ability make him a nightmare for defensive backs, and his rating should reflect his status as one of the best in the nation.
Evan Stewart from Oregon is another receiver who could crack the top tier. His speed and agility make him a deep threat on every play, and his improved route-running should boost his overall rating. Emeka Egbuka from Ohio State is another player to keep an eye on. While he was overshadowed by Marvin Harrison Jr. in previous seasons, Egbuka has all the tools to be a dominant force in the game, with a rating likely in the 94-96 range.
Tight ends might not always get the spotlight, but Brock Bowers from Georgia (if he returns for another season) or another standout like Colston Loveland from Michigan could be the highest-rated at the position. Loveland’s combination of size, hands, and blocking ability makes him a complete tight end, and his rating should reflect that.
On the defensive side of the ball, the ratings will be just as competitive. Edge rushers like James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee and JT Tuimoloau from Ohio State should be among the highest-rated defenders. Pearce’s explosiveness off the edge and ability to disrupt plays could make him a 96+ overall player. Tuimoloau’s versatility as both a pass rusher and run stopper should earn him a similar rating.
At linebacker, Harold Perkins from LSU is a name that stands out. His speed and instincts make him a sideline-to-sideline playmaker, and his ability to blitz and cover should result in a high 90s rating. Barrett Carter from Clemson is another linebacker to watch. His football IQ and tackling prowess make him a force in the middle of the field.
In the secondary, cornerbacks like Travis Hunter from Colorado and Will Johnson from Michigan should be the cream of the crop. Hunter’s two-way ability as both a WR and CB makes him a unique talent, but his coverage skills alone could earn him a 97+ rating. Johnson’s lockdown ability and ball skills make him a shutdown corner in the making. At safety, Malaki Starks from Georgia is a name to remember. His range and hitting power make him a complete defensive back, and his rating should reflect his impact on the field.
Special teams shouldn’t be overlooked either. Kickers like Will Reichard from Alabama (if he returns) or another elite specialist could have high ratings due to their consistency and clutch performances.
Ultimately, EA College Football 26 is shaping up to be a deep and immersive experience, with player ratings that reflect the real-life talent of these athletes. Whether you’re slinging passes with Carson Beck, breaking tackles with Ollie Gordon, or locking down receivers with Travis Hunter, the game promises to deliver an authentic college football experience. As we await the official ratings, one thing is certain: the virtual gridiron will be packed with stars ready to leave their mark.
