We are about six months away from the release of EA Sports College Football 26, which means it’s time to start speculating about the cover athlete. EA surprised us with three athletes last season, but I think they’ll go back to the normal single-player format. So that begs the question of who is going to be? Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver is the obvious answer, but who else could be featured?
Who Could be the EA Sports College Football 26 Cover Athlete?
Arch Manning, QB, Texas
There is no doubt that the nation is yearning to see Arch Manning take over at the Texas Longhorns and fulfill his family legacy. As the most popular player in the country, I think he is very close to Smith for being the favorite as the face of EA Sports College Football 26.
Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson
On Dec. 30, Cade Klubnik announced his return to college football.
The story isn’t over. See y’all in 2025. pic.twitter.com/ovcitDHh8F
— Cade Klubnik (@CadeKlubnikQB) December 30, 2024
The Clemson quarterback is at the top of the list to win the Heisman Trophy next year after balling out in 2024 and bringing Clemson to the College Football Playoff. As one of the best players in the nation, he has a very good chance to be the cover athlete.
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
As the best defensive player in the country going into next season, I think Caleb Downs has a real chance to be the EA Sports College Football 26 cover athlete. Not only is he uber-talented, but he has also become a household name during this Ohio State Buckeyes playoff run, giving him even more reason to find himself on the cover.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
When it comes to skill-position players on offense, Jeremiyah Love has to be in contention for the best in college football. The Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back totaled over 1,000 yards on the ground this season with 16 touchdowns to match.
That, paired with his dominant playoff performance over Indiana, solidified him as a superstar. If EA wants to choose a running back, it’s got to be Love.
DJ Lagway, QB, Florida
Smith wasn’t the only true freshman to make some waves in college football this season. Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway was dominant down the stretch, bringing the team back from one of their worst starts in program history to an 8-5 finish.
As one of the most electric young players in the country, EA should be considering him to be the star of their video game.
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