EA Sports has officially announced the upcoming release of EA Sports College Football 26, set to hit the shelves this Summer. The excitement is palpable as fans eagerly speculate about which star athletes will grace the cover of this highly anticipated game. With the previous installment featuring notable players like quarterback Quinn Ewers and running back Donovan Edwards, the question on everyone’s mind is: who will take their place?
As we look forward to the new game, it’s worth noting that the previous cover stars are expected to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, paving the way for fresh faces to take the spotlight. This opens the door for a new wave of talent to be highlighted, and EA Sports is likely to capitalize on the rising stars of college football.
Five players that can be on the cover of EA Sports College Football 26
With the excitement building, let’s dive into the top candidates who could potentially land the coveted cover spot for EA Sports College Football 26.
#1, Arch Manning, quarterback
Leading the pack is none other than Arch Manning, a name that resonates with college football fans across the nation. As a member of the illustrious Manning family, Arch has quickly become one of the most talked-about players in the league. Joining the No. 5 Texas Longhorns (13-3), he is set to take over as the starting quarterback following Ewers’ decision to enter the NFL Draft.
Throughout the season, there has been much debate among fans about whether coach Steve Sarkisian should have started Manning sooner. With the opportunity to showcase his skills next season, Manning’s popularity and marketability could make him the frontrunner for the cover of EA Sports College Football 26.
#2, Jeremiah Smith, wide receiver
Next up is Jeremiah Smith, a standout wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes. In his freshman year, Smith has made a significant impact, ranking seventh in the league with 71 receptions for 1,227 yards and 14 touchdowns. His contributions have been vital in leading the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff National Championship.
As Ohio State prepares to face the No. 7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the championship game, Smith has the chance to elevate his profile even further. A stellar performance could solidify his position as a top candidate for the cover, especially as he gains traction among fans.
#3, Julian Lewis, quarterback
Another intriguing option is Julian Lewis, who is set to step into the role of starting quarterback for the No. 23 Colorado Buffaloes (9-4). With Shedeur Sanders declaring for the NFL Draft, Lewis will lead the team into a new era under coach Deion Sanders.
As a freshman, Lewis has the potential to capture the attention of fans and EA Sports alike. With the Buffaloes looking to build on their recent success, featuring Lewis on the cover could resonate well with the college football community eager to see how he performs in the upcoming season.
#4, Jeremiyah Love, running back
Jeremiah Love, the talented running back for the No. 7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish, is another strong contender. Love has had an impressive sophomore season, accumulating 1,122 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on 159 carries. As Notre Dame heads into the College Football Playoff National Championship against Ohio State, Love’s performance could be pivotal in determining the outcome of the game.
If he shines on the biggest stage, it could bolster his chances of being featured on the cover, especially given the Fighting Irish’s quest for their first national championship since 1988.
#5, Carson Beck, quarterback
Lastly, we have Carson Beck, who recently made headlines by transferring from the No. 2 Georgia Bulldogs (11-3) to the No. 15 Miami Hurricanes (10-3) for his final year of eligibility. Beck’s decision not to enter the 2025 NFL Draft demonstrates his commitment to finishing strong in college football.
Having completed 290 passes for 3,485 yards and 28 touchdowns this past season, Beck is poised to make a significant impact at Miami. EA Sports may consider him for the cover due to the fan interest surrounding his transfer and the excitement of seeing him in a new uniform.
As the anticipation builds for EA Sports College Football 26, the debate over who will grace the cover continues. With so much talent on display, fans can expect a thrilling season ahead. Each of these players brings their own unique story and skill set, making the choice for the cover star a challenging yet exciting decision for EA Sports.
In the world of college football, the spotlight is always shifting, and the new game will undoubtedly reflect the evolving landscape of the sport. Whether it’s the legacy of the Manning family, the breakout performances of young stars, or the quest for championship glory, EA Sports College Football 26 promises to capture the essence of what makes college football so special. Who do you think deserves the cover? The conversation is just getting started!
