As anticipation builds for the long-awaited release of EA Sports College Football 26, players and fans alike are buzzing about the early player ratings that have begun to emerge. With just one week until early access kicks off, we’re starting to see which athletes will shine above the rest in this year’s game. EA has been gradually revealing top-rated players by position, building up to the unveiling of the top 100 overall players—a tantalizing preview of what’s to come when the full roster ratings drop.
Leading the charge is none other than last year’s College Football National Champion, the Ohio State Buckeyes, who boast the two top-rated players in the game. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith takes the crown as the top-rated player with an impressive overall rating of 98. As a sophomore, Smith combines exceptional athleticism with skill, showcasing a speed rating of 95, agility that hits 95, and remarkable stats in catching—99 for spectacular catches and 98 for catching in traffic. His route-running skills are equally stellar, with all categories rated at 97, making him a nightmare for defenders.
Right behind Smith is free safety Caleb Downs, also a sophomore for the Buckeyes, rated at 96 overall. Downs brings speed (93), acceleration (95), and a strong understanding of the game with a play recognition rating of 91. His coverage skills are respectable too, with 87 for man coverage and 85 for zone coverage, making him a formidable presence on the field.
Ohio State isn’t alone in showcasing talent; the Texas Longhorns have stepped into the spotlight with five players making the top 100 list. Middle linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. shines brightly with a rating of 95, and he’s joined by an impressive cast that includes RE Colin Simmons (93 OVR), CB Malik Muhammad (92 OVR), FS Michael Taaffe (91 OVR), and HB Quintrevion Wisner (91 OVR).
While Ohio State and Texas might claim some of the highest-rated individual athletes, Alabama could be the team to beat. With seven players cracking the top 100, their roster is packed with talent. Leading the pack is sophomore wide receiver Ryan Williams, who shares an overall rating of 95 and pairs that with some jaw-dropping stats: 96 speed, 99 agility, and a staggering 99 acceleration. Alabama’s lineup also includes formidable offensive linemen like LT Kadyn Proctor (94 OVR) and RG Jaeden Roberts (92 OVR), essential pieces in their strategy of dominating the game from the trenches.
For fans eager to dive into EA Sports College Football 26, early access is set for July 7th for those with the Deluxe Edition or MVP Bundle, while the global launch will follow on July 10th. This year promises to deliver exciting matchups and engaging gameplay, especially with these standout players leading their squads. If the early ratings are any indication, 2026 is gearing up to be a thrilling year for college football enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for all the player ratings as we count down to launch!
