Football is a sport that’s super specific about its positions. A QB can’t play as a WR, RBs have their own set of skills, and forget about flipping players between offense and defense. That was the case until now.
With the introduction of the Gadget (GAD) position in Madden 26, EA has completely flipped the game. You can now look for versatility in players who can switch between positions. But which positions does this apply to? And how will this play out in Madden 26? We will discuss all of that today.
What Is The GAD Position?
GAD is a position played by specific players who can switch between roles on offense. This is usually done between roles like QB and WRs, or TEs and RBs, roles requiring similar (but not the same) stat combinations. The problem is, most of the time, QBs are the only ones with good AWR and Passing stats. But add in some above-average Ball Carrier and Running stats to the mix, and you might create a Gadget player.
Of course, you probably couldn’t compare a Gadget player to the likes of Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson, but how many teams realistically have 99 OVR players like them? GAD players bring versatility to the mix, allowing you to mix up strategies and try out different players on the gridiron.
Travis Hunter is the best example of a GAD player in Madden 26. That’s because not only is he an amazing offensive CB, but his defensive stats are also well into the high 70s. Again, you could argue that the stats don’t justify him being played as a defensive lineman, but a lot of teams could use a player who doesn’t fit into one traditional role. Hunter’s primary role, however, will remain as a CB since his General and Receiving stats far surpass his Defensive stats, but he can still be considered an option for a role swap.
Will The GAD Position Be Overpowered?
A player who can play two or more roles seems a bit OP, even if they aren’t the best at their secondary role. But not to worry, EA thought of that as well. There are a few things that’ll help balance the GAD position throughout the game:
- Players viable for the GAD position will be super rare. Not every team is going to have a GAD player. On the contrary, only a few of the top teams might be the ones recruiting them at the start of the season.
- Secondary role stats will be reduced. Most GAD positions won’t have ideal stats for a secondary role. While you could switch them in if your primary player is injured, more often than not, you’ll want them in their primary position.
It’s not all bad, though, since players with the GAD position will most likely have the Ironman superstar ability. Players with this ability avoid any ratings penalties associated with playing outside of their primary position.
Let’s see how this position comes into play in Madden 26 and how EA decides to balance it.
