When you pull off moves that seem straight out of a video game, it’s only fitting you land on the cover of one. Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley has been officially announced as the cover star for Madden NFL 26, showcasing his iconic reverse hurdle that turned heads and left defenders in the dust.
Adding to his accolades, Barkley has also been inducted into the prestigious Madden 99 Club, marking a landmark moment as the first Eagles offensive player honored with this distinction. “Being featured on the cover of Madden NFL 26 and being named to the Madden NFL ’99 Club’ are both dreams come true,” Barkley expressed. “I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches, and Eagles fans for their support, and I can’t wait to hit the field again to give Madden players more highlight-reel moments in Madden NFL 26.”
Barkley is coming off a remarkable season that solidified his status as one of the greats in NFL history. He racked up an astounding 2,504 rushing yards during the regular season and playoffs combined, setting a new benchmark for single-season rushing achievements. Although he came up just 101 yards short of Eric Dickerson’s regular-season rushing record—due in part to the Eagles intentionally resting their starters against the New York Giants in their final game—he made an indelible mark by leading the team through a playoff run that culminated in their second Lombardi Trophy.
Among the many jaw-dropping plays that defined his season, Barkley’s reverse hurdle against the Jaguars stands out. It was a dazzling display of both skill and audacity. On a crucial third-and-6, he caught a pass from Jalen Hurts and swiftly broke a tackle before executing a stunning spin move that left defender Devin Lloyd grasping for air. But he wasn’t done there—he turned his back to cornerback Jarrian Jones and leaped over him, all while gaining an additional five yards on a 14-yard play that perfectly encapsulated his electrifying style.
“Saquon’s reverse hurdle was one of those rare moments in NFL history that you can’t help but call ‘video game-like,'” noted Evan Dexter, vice president of franchise strategy and marketing for EA Sports Madden NFL. “It truly showcases the athleticism and creativity of one of football’s most electrifying athletes. This year’s Madden NFL 26 aims to bring the most authentic NFL experience possible, allowing players to relive those unreal moments that Saquon delivered all season long. Stay tuned for the full reveal this Wednesday—you won’t want to miss what’s coming next.”
Given the jaw-dropping plays he’s delivered, it’s no wonder that Barkley’s Madden NFL 26 ratings for spin move, juke, agility, and change of direction are all at the very top. The Eagles’ remarkable running back has indeed placed himself among an elite group, becoming the franchise’s first member of the Madden 99 Club in 20 years, joining the ranks of legends like safety Brian Dawkins and kicker David Akers. As the counting down begins towards Madden NFL 26’s release, fans can look forward to channeling Barkley’s magic in what promises to be an exhilarating football experience.
