Source: The New York Times
EA Sports College Football 26: Feature Stars Revealed
As anticipation builds for college football 26, EA Sports has officially unveiled the cover stars for the upcoming game: Alabama’s Ryan Williams and Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. Both players are recognized as two of the most talented wide receivers in college football today, adding excitement to the release scheduled for July 10, 2025.
Star Power: Williams and Smith Unite on the Cover
Ryan Williams shared that he attempted to persuade Jeremiah Smith to join him at Alabama during their recruitment journey, highlighting their strength as five-star prospects. “I tried to get him,” Williams remarked, reflecting on their discussions at a Georgia event. Smith added, “It would’ve been crazy. I don’t know how you stop that.” Despite not playing together, their recognition on the game cover showcases their immense talent and potential both on and off the field.
The Game’s Launch Details and Features
While the standard edition of college football 26 features just Williams and Smith, the Deluxe Edition will include over 20 current players, iconic former athletes, and celebrated coaches. Noteworthy players on the Deluxe cover include Penn State’s Nick Singleton, Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love, and others from top universities across the nation.
The game aims to offer enhanced features, and over the course of their freshman seasons, both Smith and Williams experienced evaluation bumps in their player ratings. The two young athletes expressed confidence that they should rate at least a 95 overall upon release, given their impressive performances in the previous season.
Freshman Phenoms: A Powerful Connection
Both players have established themselves as standout freshmen, cementing their positions as future stars in college football. As they continue to develop in their respective programs, the players maintain their friendship by sharing excitement over each other’s successes. They text each other after significant plays, demonstrating a shared commitment to excellence.
Williams expressed admiration for Smith, saying, “I wish my hands were bigger. If I had his hands, oh my goodness, it’d be crazy.” Smith, in turn, praised Williams for his remarkable speed. Their mutual respect and camaraderie are outcomes of a shared journey through collegiate football.
Thoughts on the NFL Draft Rule
Despite speculation around potential early exits to the NFL, both Williams and Smith have stated their intention to complete two more seasons of college football before becoming eligible for the draft. This decision reflects not only their dedication to their teams but also their commitment to further developing their skills. The introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights has altered the landscape of college sports, allowing them to enjoy their college experiences while preparing for the next level.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for College Football 26?
The full details of college football 26 will be revealed in the coming days, but the buzz surrounding Williams and Smith is palpable. They represent the future of college football, and their presence on the game cover symbolizes the next wave of talent that will shape the sport for years to come. With their skills and charisma, both players are set to leave a lasting impact beyond their time in college.
FAQ
When will EA Sports College Football 26 be released?
The game is scheduled for release on July 10, 2025.
Who are the cover stars of College Football 26?
The cover features Jeremiah Smith from Ohio State and Ryan Williams from Alabama.
Will College Football 26 include other players on the cover?
Yes, the Deluxe Edition will showcase over 20 additional current players, former athletes, and coaches.
What ratings do Williams and Smith expect in the game?
Both players believe they should receive ratings of at least 95 overall.
Are Williams and Smith planning to enter the NFL draft early?
No, both players intend to complete at least two more seasons of college football before becoming eligible for the NFL draft.