Additionally, the cover marks a crucial departure from College Football 26 Coins previous versions of the series with the inclusion of coaches. Georgia’s Kirby Smart, Penn State’s James Franklin, and Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham are featured prominently, suggesting that coaching staffs will play a bigger role in College Football 26 than they have in the past. This shift could translate into more strategic gameplay, possibly allowing players to take on the role of a head coach, recruit players, and guide their teams to victory.

This marks a significant change from College Football 25, which only featured players. The decision to add coaches reflects the growing importance of their influence in the college football world. Not only are they critical to the success of the teams, but they also play a pivotal role in the broader college football narrative.

Freshmen on the Rise: The Game-Changing Role of NIL Deals

Perhaps one of the most exciting changes in College Football 26 is the inclusion of true freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood on the cover. Underwood, who enrolled early at Michigan, has already made waves in the college football scene due to his impressive skills and his overwhelming NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) valuation. As the highest-earning freshman in college football, his appearance on the cover is a major milestone for the game—and for college sports in general.

Underwood’s inclusion reflects the new reality of college athletics, where athletes are no longer just limited to scholarships—they can now earn substantial money from their NIL rights. This marks a historic shift in how athletes are represented in the gaming world. Previously, athletes were only seen as tools within the game’s engine, with limited representation outside of gameplay. Now, as players like Underwood command massive NIL valuations, they’re becoming stars in CUT 26 Coins their own right, attracting both fans and commercial deals.