The return of EA Sports’ College Football franchise has reignited excitement among fans, and with *EA College Football 26* on the horizon, speculation is building about which players will stand out as the game’s top performers. For the Tennessee Volunteers, a program on the rise under head coach Josh Heupel, several players are poised to make a significant impact both on the field and in the virtual realm. The Vols boast a mix of explosive offensive playmakers, defensive stalwarts, and emerging stars who could dominate in the upcoming game. Based on recent performances, projected roles, and overall talent, here’s a forecast of the top five Tennessee players likely to be rated highest in *EA College Football 26*.
### **1. Nico Iamaleava (QB)**
The crown jewel of Tennessee’s future, Nico Iamaleava is expected to take over as the full-time starting quarterback in 2024, setting him up for a massive role in *EA College Football 26*. A former five-star recruit, Iamaleava possesses elite arm talent, mobility, and the kind of playmaking ability that translates perfectly to video game dominance. His performance in the Citrus Bowl, where he accounted for four touchdowns, showcased his dual-threat capabilities, making him a prime candidate for one of the highest quarterback ratings in the game.
In *EA College Football 26*, Iamaleava’s attributes will likely reflect his strong arm, accuracy on deep throws, and scrambling ability. Given the way EA Sports traditionally rates young stars with high upside, he could land in the 90-94 overall range, especially if he has a breakout season in 2025. His combination of size (6’6”, 205 lbs) and athleticism makes him a nightmare for defenses, both in real life and in the virtual game. Gamers will love his ability to extend plays and launch bombs downfield, making him one of the most exciting players to use in the SEC.
### **2. James Pearce Jr. (EDGE)**
If there’s one player who could be the highest-rated defensive player in *EA College Football 26*, it’s James Pearce Jr. The star edge rusher was a force in 2023, racking up 9.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss, establishing himself as one of the most feared pass rushers in the nation. With another year of development under his belt, Pearce could be an absolute monster in the game, boasting speed, power, and elite pass-rush moves.
EA Sports typically rewards dominant defensive players with high ratings, and Pearce’s explosiveness off the edge should translate to a 93+ overall rating. His ability to bend around tackles, combined with his relentless motor, will make him a user-controlled nightmare for opposing offensive lines. In dynasty modes, he could even be a top draft pick if he declares for the NFL after the 2025 season. For Tennessee fans and gamers who love controlling a game-wrecking defender, Pearce will be a must-use player.
### **3. Squirrel White (WR)**
Speed kills in college football—and in video games. Squirrel White, Tennessee’s electric wide receiver, is poised to be one of the most dangerous weapons in *EA College Football 26*. After a strong 2023 season where he emerged as a reliable target, White’s quickness and route-running make him a perfect fit for EA’s gameplay mechanics, where fast, shifty receivers can dominate in the open field.
White’s rating will likely hinge on his 2025 production, but given his skill set, he could land in the 88-92 overall range. His acceleration, agility, and catching stats should be among the best in the SEC, making him a go-to option for gamers looking to exploit man coverage. Whether it’s jet sweeps, quick slants, or deep posts, White’s ability to create separation will make him a favorite in the passing game. If he develops into a true No. 1 receiver, his stock in the game will only rise.
### **4. Dylan Sampson (RB)**
Tennessee’s running back room is loaded, but Dylan Sampson has the versatility and big-play ability to stand out in *EA College Football 26*. A dynamic runner with excellent receiving skills, Sampson fits perfectly into Josh Heupel’s up-tempo offense. His ability to break tackles, accelerate through holes, and contribute in the passing game makes him a well-rounded back who should earn a strong rating in the game.
Sampson’s rating could fall in the 87-90 range, depending on his 2025 workload. His speed and elusiveness will be his standout traits, making him a nightmare in open space. Gamers who enjoy using running backs in the passing game will appreciate his ability to line up in the slot and create mismatches. If he becomes Tennessee’s lead back and puts up big numbers, don’t be surprised if his rating climbs even higher as the season progresses.
### **5. Edwin Spillman (LB)**
A young player with immense upside, Edwin Spillman could be one of the breakout stars in *EA College Football 26*. As a freshman in 2024, Spillman has the potential to develop into a tackling machine for the Vols’ defense. His instincts, physicality, and sideline-to-sideline range make him a perfect fit for the modern linebacker role in college football—and in video games.
EA Sports often boosts the ratings of young defensive players who show flashes of greatness, and if Spillman lives up to his potential, he could land in the 85-88 range by 2026. His hit power, pursuit speed, and coverage ability will make him a versatile weapon in the game, allowing gamers to blitz, drop into coverage, or chase down ball carriers with ease. If he becomes a household name by 2025, he could even push for a higher rating as one of the SEC’s top linebackers.
### **Final Thoughts**
Tennessee’s roster is filled with talent that should translate well into *EA College Football 26*. From Nico Iamaleava’s superstar potential at quarterback to James Pearce Jr.’s dominance off the edge, the Vols will have several players who are not only fun to watch in real life but also game-changers in the virtual world. Squirrel White’s speed, Dylan Sampson’s versatility, and Edwin Spillman’s defensive prowess round out a group that should make Tennessee one of the more exciting teams to play with in the game.
As the 2025 season unfolds, these players’ ratings could shift based on performance, but one thing is certain: the Volunteers will be well-represented in *EA College Football 26* with a mix of established stars and rising talents. Whether you’re a Tennessee fan or just a gamer looking for explosive playmakers, these five players should be on your radar when the game releases.
