The wait is nearly over. EA Sports College Football 26 is officially on its way.
This upcoming entry marks the triumphant follow-up to last year’s record-smashing EA Sports College Football 25, which reignited a dormant franchise and delivered the highest-selling sports game in US history.
Pre-orders are open for the individual games, but it’s the MVP Bundle that will attract many interested in playing two of the hottest sports games of 2025. Madden NFL, one of the most popular sports games ever, will be available just over a month after College Football 26 on August 14th (or August 11th for MVP).
In the 2025 calendar of video game releases this year, the College Football 26 release date is officially down for July 10th, with early access available starting July 7th for those who purchase the Deluxe Edition or the MVP Bundle. Players will be able to choose from three editions:
Standard Edition – $69.99
Deluxe Edition – $99.99 (includes early access, 4600 College Football points, and bonus content)
MVP Bundle – $149.99 (includes both College Football 26 and Madden NFL 26 Deluxe Editions, or $139.00 for Xbox edition)
Available exclusively on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, the release marks yet another year where PC gamers are left out of the college football party. This continued PC exclusion has stirred frustration, particularly with the sales success of the previous installment and the modding potential the platform offers.
Gameplay expectations and new features
While full gameplay details are still under wraps, EA has confirmed that a comprehensive reveal is coming in May.
So far, teasers and rumors suggest that familiar fan-favorite modes like Dynasty and Road to Glory will return. One particularly exciting hint came from the trailer, which alluded to the potential inclusion of high school gameplay elements with EA marketing revolving around the slogan “from high school recruit to NFL Legend”. Although not officially confirmed, the speculation alone is generating buzz.
One of the biggest shifts this year is EA’s significantly enhanced approach to NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals. After facing criticism in the past, EA Sports has raised compensation for players appearing in the game from $600 to $1,500. Additionally, athletes will receive a Deluxe Edition of the game.
With over 11,000 players included in the previous game instalment, this year is likely to see even broader participation.
Who’s on the College Football 26 cover?
Cover athletes have not been officially announced, but a recent College Football 26 cover leak sent fans into a frenzy in March.
A few stars that were spotted at a photoshoot in March at the Rose Bowl were Ohio State’s standout receiver Jeremiah Smith and Florida’s highly touted QB DJ Lagway, their appearances suggesting that EA might be planning multiple cover versions. The appearance of coaches, such as legend Kirby Smart from Georgia, also suggests that College Football 26 will feature coach likenesses.
This strategic inclusion speaks to EA’s broader effort to celebrate all levels of the college football experience, from players to the coaches on the sidelines.
This summer is all about American football, so get ready to hit the field.
