EA Sports released the first trailer for Madden NFL 26 earlier today, giving players a glimpse at what’s coming in this year’s game. The trailer highlights how weather will have a bigger impact on gameplay, shows off new animations and offers a brief look at some of the new features still to be revealed.
The latest Gridiron Notes dive deeper into what’s coming in Madden NFL 26, with the team sharing more about QB and Coach DNA, Wear & Tear system and dynamic substitutions. There’s also more information on how weather will affect gameplay, along with details on custom defensive zones and early teases for updates to Franchise Mode, presentation and Superstar Mode.
The blog offers an early look at a few of the new gameplay features, but the team makes it clear that a full gameplay deep dive is coming soon, promising plenty more details in the near future.
Madden NFL 26 reworks quarterback play with its new QB DNA system, bringing over 500 new animations and player-specific behaviors. From how QBs hold the ball to how they move and throw, each one reflects real-life tendencies using NFL data. Players like Josh Allen, Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson now feel and play more like their real-world counterparts, adding a layer of authenticity to every snap.
Madden NFL 26 also introduces Coach DNA, a new system that brings real NFL coaching styles and decision-making into the game using years of data and machine learning. Coaches like Dan Campbell and Kevin O’Connell for example, now call plays and make decisions that match their real-life tendencies. Coach Suggestions also get an upgrade with Coach Speak, offering down-and-distance advice in the voice and style of each coach. The CPU will now make smarter pre-snap adjustments with Realtime Coaching AI. Playbooks are expanding too, with nearly 1,000 new plays reflecting modern offensive and defensive trends seen across the league, including shift-based offenses from the Dolphins and 49ers.
The team added more depth to roster management with the Wear & Tear system, which impacts player performance over time and Dynamic Substitutions for smoother in-game adjustments. New depth chart positions like Edge, Nose Tackle, Long Snapper and Gadget reflect the modern NFL. Players like Travis Hunter, who could take on a true two-way role this season, are built into the game with abilities that account for the physical demands of playing on both sides of the ball.
For those interested in how weather will affect gameplay, as well as custom defensive zones and early insights into Franchise Mode, Superstar, and Ultimate Team, the latest Gridiron Notes offer a closer look. Franchise mode fans will appreciate the upgraded presentation, which features halftime shows and weekly recaps hosted by Scott Hanson, plus brand-new custom broadcast packages designed specifically for Sunday, Monday and Thursday primetime games.
Here’s a brief rundown from the press release EA sent over. We’ll be diving deeper into all of it in the days ahead.
Madden NFL 26 gameplay redefines NFL simulation with cutting-edge features powered by advanced physics and AI-powered machine learning systems:
- Coach DNA: Coaches employ real philosophies, backed by nearly a decade of NFL data, with styles like Dan Campbell’s aggressive fourth-down calls and Kevin O’Connell’s creative offense, adding strategic depth. Dynamic coach suggestions and multi-player counters provide smart play recommendations based on game situations and opponent tendencies, countering repetitive tactics.
- QB DNA: The most iconic position in sports comes to life with signature throwing motions, pocket presence, scrambling styles, authentic arm slots and more. An All-New traits system powers authentic behavior like you see every Sunday, from Josh Allen’s powerful arm to Lamar Jackson’s agile evasions. This is the most lifelike quarterback experience in franchise history.
- Explosive NFL Movement: Captures the league’s unmatched athleticism, letting you feel the raw power and precision of every burst. From game-changing cuts to electrifying runs, you create the impact that defines Sunday’s Superstars, putting you in control of gamechanging NFL speed.
- Physics Expansion: Physics-based interactions, including catch tackles, stiff-arms, and trucks, deliver authentic contact outcomes, while new mechanics like Custom Defensive Zones along with new knockouts and swats take pass coverage to a whole new level.
- Football Weather: Extreme weather impacts gameplay, with snow, fog, and wet conditions affecting visibility, movement, stamina, and ball security making weather an adversary just like Buffalo and Cleveland in January.
- Foundational Football: New mechanics, including Adaptive Coverage, enhanced D-line Stunts & Twists, and block steering, provide unparalleled realism across offense, defense, and special teams.
Madden NFL 26 introduces a refreshed feature set that immerses players in the heart of the NFL, with deepened modes and engaging live content throughout the year:
- Presentation: Authentic NFL atmospheres come to life with team-specific run-outs, iconic crowd chants like Minnesota’s Skol, and Baltimore’s electrifying pre-game light show. Dynamic halftime shows, hosted by new addition Scott Hanson, and custom broadcast packages—now featuring primetime slots for Monday, Thursday and Sunday night matchups—produce a distinct look, sound and feel.
- Franchise: Build your legacy in style with new archetypes and gear for your custom coach or start from a real NFL coach. New features such as playsheets, Wear & Tear and Approval Ratings make every week a unique challenge. Scott Hanson’s Weekly Recaps and Rich Eisen’s commentary highlight a long list of upgrades to the fan favorite mode.
- Superstar: Import your EA SPORTS
College Football 26 player or craft a new avatar, to progress through weekly storylines, master the Sphere of Influence system and achieve 99 OVR – all while balancing Wear & Tear and competing in live events. - Madden Ultimate Team: Build your dream roster with NFL legends and stars, tackle new dynamic MUT Events, and rise through 50-player Leaderboard Campaigns. NFL Team Pass delivers team-specific rewards across online modes, keeping programs fresh and offering ever-evolving ways to play with every new program.
- Roster Management: Strategically develop your roster to fit your scheme with modern Depth Chart positions including edge, long snapper, gadget players and more. Manage weekly performance with the new Wear and Tear system and Dynamic Substitutions.
